key growing information

How to Grow Feathertop Grass (Cenchrus longisetus)

How to grow feathertop grass (Pennisetum villosum) from seed: starting transplants, direct sowing in warm climates, cutting stage to avoid shattering, soil and uses.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Feathertop Grass (Cenchrus longisetus) - Key Growing Information

Feathertop grass, with its white bottlebrush plumes and trailing clumps of narrow green foliage.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Allow 10–14 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C).

SOWING:

Transplants are recommended: sow 1/8" deep in cell trays or your usual containers 5–7 weeks before the last frost, and plant out after the last frost. Direct sowing after the last frost works only in warm climates with a long season.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun.

PLANT HEIGHT:

Grows about 12–24" tall.

PLANT SPACING:

Space plants 12–18" apart.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Hardy in Zones 9–10.

HARVEST:

For fresh or dried use: Cut while seed heads are still pale green, just before they shed pollen; heads cut after shedding tend to shatter.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Average to light, porous soil.

USES:

A superb fresh cut grass that can also be dried. Lovely in naturalistic or mixed grass plantings, and striking in masses, tubs and containers.SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cenchrus longisetus