Pennisetum orientale  ‘Karley Rose’

Pennisetum orientale ‘Karley Rose’ has just about everything going for it that a nursery, gardener or landscape professional could want in an ornamental grass. It is quick to establish, has spectacular, long-lasting pink plumes and deep green foliage, which grows in an upright shape. It is hardier than most Oriental Fountain Grasses, and it is drought tolerant once established. This gem was discovered over twenty years ago among a group of Pennisetum orientale by David Skwiot of Sunny Border Nurseries, Inc., Kensington, Connecticut. He then named this beautiful fountain grass cultivar after his daughter, Karley Rose.

Hoffman Nursery

Fact sheet

• Height: 36 - 40 Inches
• Spacing: 24 - 36 Inches
• Spread: 24 - 36 Inches
• Flower colors: Purple, red
• Foliage colors: Green
• Habit: Upright
• Growth rate: fast
• Production: Grow in 1-, 2- or 3-gallon containers
• Grow in well-drained soil
• Water needs: keep soil evenly moist; do not overwater
• Fertilizing: use a slow release, medium-rate fertilizer
• Possible pests/diseases: aphids, leaf spot, spider mites; root rot can develop if kept too wet
• Overwintering: cold frame with clear poly; do not overwater
Pruning and cutting back will help this fast-growing plant from becoming leggy; grows back quickly

Source: Hoffman Nursery

Hoffman Nursery

Features:

• Drought-tolerant
• Deer-resistant
• Long-lasting, soft, pink plumes (from June to fall)
• Intermediate size suits small or large landscapes
• Forms attractive borders
• Excellent in masses and sweeps; superb color when backlit by the sun
• Beautiful and easy to grow in decorative urns
• Easy to maintain (cut back in spring before new growth appears)