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 one of the most colorful ornamental grasses available, valued for its dramatic foliage and graceful, fountain-like growth habit. Long, arching blades emerge striped with shades of burgundy, purple, green, cream, and bright pink, creating a vibrant display that stands out from virtually every other grass in the garden. The foliage provides constant visual interest from the moment plants begin actively growing, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want season-long color without relying solely on flowers.

As the season progresses, soft, feathery flower plumes rise above the foliage, adding texture and movement to an already impressive plant. The blooms catch sunlight beautifully and sway with the slightest breeze, creating a dynamic effect in containers and landscape beds. Thriving in full sun and warm temperatures, ‘Fireworks’ develops its richest coloration during the heat of summer and continues looking attractive well into the fall. Its vigorous growth and bold presence make it a natural focal point in mixed plantings, where it contributes height, structure, and a tropical feel.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Fireworks’ has consistently been one of the most eye-catching foliage plants we grow. Plants establish quickly, fill containers rapidly, and maintain a full, arching shape throughout the growing season. Even during periods of intense summer heat, the foliage remained colorful and vibrant, with the pink and burgundy striping holding exceptionally well compared to many other variegated ornamental grasses. The combination of strong performance and low maintenance makes it a reliable choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners.

What I appreciate most about ‘Fireworks’ is its ability to anchor an entire planting design. Because the foliage already contains multiple colors, it pairs easily with a wide range of annuals and perennials while helping tie mixed combinations together. For gardeners looking to create bold, professional-looking containers with minimal effort, few plants deliver as much color, texture, and season-long impact as ‘Fireworks’.

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.