Troubleshooting
Little Bunny Fountain Grass problems — and how to fix them
Little Bunny Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Little Bunny') 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.
Crown rot in wet soil
Heavy, poorly drained soil over winter rots the crown. Plant in free-draining ground and avoid mulch piled against the base.
Floppy, open clump
Too much shade or rich, over-fertilised soil weakens the stems. Give full sun and lean soil to keep the mound tight.
Self-seeding
Can set viable seed and spread in warm climates; deadhead spent plumes if volunteers are unwanted, though 'Little Bunny' seeds less aggressively than the species.
Slow spring emergence
As a warm-season grass it greens up late. Don't assume it has died over winter; cut last year's foliage back before new growth pushes.
Prevent little bunny fountain grass problems before they start
Most little bunny fountain grass issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for little bunny fountain grass in general rather than its problems? Read the full little bunny fountain grass care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Little Bunny Fountain Grass problems — FAQ
Why is my little bunny fountain grass crown rot in wet soil?
Heavy, poorly drained soil over winter rots the crown. Plant in free-draining ground and avoid mulch piled against the base.
Why is my little bunny fountain grass floppy, open clump?
Too much shade or rich, over-fertilised soil weakens the stems. Give full sun and lean soil to keep the mound tight.
Why is my little bunny fountain grass self-seeding?
Can set viable seed and spread in warm climates; deadhead spent plumes if volunteers are unwanted, though 'Little Bunny' seeds less aggressively than the species.
Why is my little bunny fountain grass slow spring emergence?
As a warm-season grass it greens up late. Don't assume it has died over winter; cut last year's foliage back before new growth pushes.