Troubleshooting
feathertop grass problems — and how to fix them
feathertop grass (Pennisetum villosum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Frost kill
Not frost-hardy below about -3°C; plants are typically killed by hard frosts in USDA zones 8 and below. In cool-temperate gardens, treat as an annual or overwinter rooted divisions in a frost-free greenhouse. Mulch crowns heavily where mild frosts occur.
Self-seeding and invasiveness
Can self-seed prolifically in warm climates and is considered invasive in parts of Australia, South Africa, and the Mediterranean. Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to prevent unwanted spread in the garden.
Crown rot in wet winters
Poor winter drainage causes crown and root rot. Plant on a raised bed or slope, or incorporate grit into the planting hole. Avoid overhead irrigation in autumn and winter.
Prevent feathertop grass problems before they start
Most feathertop grass issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for feathertop grass in general rather than its problems? Read the full feathertop grass care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
feathertop grass problems — FAQ
Why is my feathertop grass frost kill?
Not frost-hardy below about -3°C; plants are typically killed by hard frosts in USDA zones 8 and below. In cool-temperate gardens, treat as an annual or overwinter rooted divisions in a frost-free greenhouse. Mulch crowns heavily where mild frosts occur.
Why is my feathertop grass self-seeding and invasiveness?
Can self-seed prolifically in warm climates and is considered invasive in parts of Australia, South Africa, and the Mediterranean. Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to prevent unwanted spread in the garden.
Why is my feathertop grass crown rot in wet winters?
Poor winter drainage causes crown and root rot. Plant on a raised bed or slope, or incorporate grit into the planting hole. Avoid overhead irrigation in autumn and winter.