Purple Fountain grass viability

Dicentra Philadelphia, PA(Zone 6b) Aug 30, 2001

Can someone give me the scoop on Purple Fountain grass (rubrum and others) seed? I heard and was told that these seeds are not fertile, however, I see people trading them all of the time. What's the real story..anyone? Thanks :)
Trish

Post #12021

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poppysue Westbrook, ME(Zone 5a) Aug 30, 2001

Trish - I have not only been told that it's sterile .... I've tried a couple of times to germinate seeds .... and NOTHING. Pennisetum setaceum (the species) or Rose fountain grass can be easily be grown from seeds. Most of the hybrid grasses have to be grown from cuttings. I guess that's why they're so expensive.

Post #118382

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Dicentra Philadelphia, PA(Zone 6b) Aug 30, 2001

Thanks Poppysue..I thought I had the correct information. So much for wishing thinking :)
Trish

Post #118751

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darius So.App.Mtns., United States(Zone 5b) Sep 06, 2001

Trish, I have looked longingly at Purple Fountain Grass here as our State Roads people are using tons of them in roadside plantings. However, they will not survive 10 degree weather, so I have elected not to plant any. Too bad, as they add lots of lovely color and texture... siigh.

Post #122147

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