Pennisetum glaucom 'Jester'

Ornamental Millet or Pearl Millet

Tips for Homeowners:

Evenly moist soils are preferred in well-drained areas and feed every 2-4 weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer. Removing seed heads as they mature will encourage more blooms all season, or leave them for the birds to enjoy.

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Unique and everchanging foliage colors beginning with bright green and maturing to bronze-green. Bronze-purple flowers spikes will appear mid-summer.

  • Color and texture for the garden or container
  • Seeds attract birds
  • Wide bronze blades

Ideal when planted in large groups or unique on its own in large containers or borders.

Height: 3-5 ft
Spread: 1-2 ft
Zone: 10-11
Color: Purple

Interesting Notes about Ornamental Millet:

Ornamental millet grass is the result of a breeding program to expand the use of the original cereal grain crop. This grass has no agricultural value, but has made quite a name for itself in the home landscape industry. The cattail-like plumes and the wide leaves can vary in color and create a great contrast with other plants in the garden or landscape. As the spikes mature the seeds provide nourishment for birds or they can be used in flower arrangements.


Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes:

  • Garden
  • Border or Bed
  • Dried Flower/Foliage
  • Low Maintenance
  • Heat Tolerant
  • Mass Planting
  • Container
  • Fast Growing
  • Vigorous
  • Great Foliage
  • Cut Flower/ Foliage
  • Fall Color
  • Ornamental Grass

Foliage Color:

  • Purple
  • Green
  • Bronze

Exposure:

  • Full Sun

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Songbirds

Habit:

  • Upright

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Summer
  • Fall

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Summer
  • Fall

Soil Moisture:

  • Moist, Well-Drained