CREAM LEA® Cenchrus purpurascens

Cenchrus purpurascens Trade Name Cream Lea®

Formerly known as Cream Lea® Pennisetum alopecuroides. Note: This name change may help stop confusion between Pennisetum setaceus (C. setaceus), the exotic weedy fountain grass, and the local native Cenchrus purpurascens.

Information on Australian National Botanical Gardens.

• Australian Native with beautiful cream flower heads
• Excellent for mass planting
• Great for attracting native birds

Description: Cream Lea® Cenchrus purpurascens boasts feathery cream to white flowers that are showy and contrast with its tall lime green foliage.

It has a clumping growth habit with beautifully arching leaves. NOTE: Do not get this native Australian Cenchrus purpurascens confused with the invasive African variety (P. setaceum).

The native Australian varieties have a much wider plume than the exotic variety, and are non-invasive making them a safer choice.

Size: 600mm – 1000mm high x 600mm – 1000mm wide, Flowers up to 1500mm.

Planting Density: 2-5 plants per m², 1-2 plants per linear metre.

Uses: Mass or accent plantings for borders, rockeries and low maintenance gardens.

Position: Full sun to part shade. Cream Lea® Pennisetum suits sandy to light clay soils. Frost tolerant. Top up watering recommended in times of drought.

Care: Water as required for 8-13 weeks until established. Plant in a well mulched garden (chunky mulch is recommended).

Use slow release fertiliser in late winter. Trim back annually to 1/3 the size in late autumn to winter.

Where it works: NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC, SA, WA & TAS.

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