Botanical Name: Pennisetum setaceum ‘Fireworks’ Common Name: Fireworks Fountain Grass Hardiness Zone: Perennial in USDA Zones 9–11; Grown as an Annual Elsewhere Size: 36–48" Tall × 24–36" Spread Growth Habit: Upright, Arching, Fountain-Like Habit Sunlight: Full Sun Soil: Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Average Soils Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Bloom Season: Summer to Fall Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Fertility Features: Multicolored Variegated Foliage, Soft Bottlebrush Plumes, Heat Tolerant, Fast Growing Uses: Containers, Accent Plantings, Mixed Beds, Mass Plantings, Tropical & Statement Landscapes Patent: ✔ Patented Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

More About Pennisetum ‘Fireworks’

Pennisetum ‘Fireworks’ is prized for its explosive foliage color and graceful, cascading form. Long, narrow blades emerge with dramatic striping in shades of burgundy, purple, green, and bright pink, creating constant visual interest even before flowering begins. In mid to late summer, soft, airy plumes rise above the foliage, adding texture and movement without distracting from the foliage’s vibrant coloration.

This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, where color intensity and growth are at their peak. Once established, it handles heat and dry conditions with ease and requires very little maintenance beyond occasional watering and seasonal cleanup. Its bold habit and fast growth make it especially effective as a centerpiece in containers or as a statement plant in mixed beds.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Fireworks’ consistently delivered standout color and strong performance throughout the growing season. Plants filled in quickly, maintained their arching form without flopping, and showed excellent tolerance to summer heat. The foliage coloration remained vivid and well-defined even during extended periods of sun and warmth.

We especially like it for gardeners who want dramatic, foliage-driven impact without relying on flowers. ‘Fireworks’ pairs beautifully with solid-colored annuals and neutral foliage plants, bringing motion, height, and bold personality to containers and landscape designs with minimal effort.

Fireworks vs. Other Grasses

Pennisetum ‘Fireworks’ is a variegated ornamental fountain grass, prized for its color, movement, and dramatic foliage. Compared to Pennisetum ‘Rubrum’, Fireworks offers brighter contrast and variegation rather than solid burgundy tones. It contrasts heavily with Juncus grasses, which prioritize structure over movement, and with Prince Tut™, which offers mass instead of color. Fireworks also provides more visual excitement than Pink Muhly outside of bloom season.

Fireworks differs from Carex ‘Red Rooster’ by being more dynamic and upright, while Red Rooster leans moody and textural. Compared to Acorus ‘Ogon’, Fireworks prefers drier soil and brighter sun. Its movement complements rigid grasses like Blue Arrow. Fireworks stands out as your most colorful, energetic grass for containers and focal plantings.