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.