Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Black Beauty'

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Black Beauty' is a clump-forming ornamental grass with narrow, arching green leaves that form a neat fountain shape. From late summer into autumn it produces soft, bottlebrush flower heads in dark purple, turning almost black, held above the foliage. The leaves take on warm autumn tones, and the dried flower heads and foliage keep their shape into winter. The stems are good for cutting and drying.

The dark flower heads are unusual among grasses and stand out well against lighter perennials. It brings movement to a border in late summer and still looks good in winter if you leave it standing. It works just as well in a large pot on a sunny patio.