Nafray® Cenchrus purpurascens

Pennisetum alopecuroides (PA300) NAFRAY®

Description:
Pennisetum alopecuroides (PA300) NAFRAY® is a hardy, fine-leaved ornamental grass that provides year-round interest in the landscape. Bred in Australia for superior performance, it features a more compact growth habit, improved drought tolerance, and an extended flowering period compared to standard Fountain Grass varieties. Its soft, green foliage forms a neat clump, turning golden in cooler months, while its feathery flower plumes add texture and movement to garden spaces.

Flowers:
NAFRAY® produces delicate, feathery, cream to purple-tinged flower spikes from late summer through autumn. The blooms rise above the foliage, creating a soft, fountain-like effect that adds visual appeal and attracts pollinators.

Foliage:
Fine, arching green leaves form a dense clump, giving the plant a graceful and elegant appearance. The foliage transitions to golden tones in autumn, providing seasonal interest before fading to a soft straw color in winter.

Fruit:
NAFRAY® does not produce significant fruit but may develop small, inconspicuous seeds.

Form & Size:
This compact variety grows to approximately 60 cm high and 50 cm wide, making it ideal for small gardens, borders, and mass plantings. Its uniform shape ensures a tidy, low-maintenance appearance.

Growing Conditions:

• Position: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.
• Soil: Well-drained soils, including sandy or clay soils, with moderate fertility.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering in extended dry periods.
• Climate: Suitable for a wide range of Australian climates, including coastal areas. Frost and humidity tolerant.

Uses:

• Mass plantings for low-maintenance landscapes.
• Borders, rock gardens, and contemporary garden designs.
• Erosion control on slopes or embankments.
• Feature plant in containers or mixed perennial gardens.

Maintenance:

• Low maintenance with minimal care required.
• Cut back spent foliage to near ground level in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh new growth.
• Drought and frost-tolerant once established, with no major pest or disease issues.

Notes:

• NAFRAY® was specifically bred for Australian conditions, making it a resilient choice for low-water gardens.
• It is non-invasive and has a lower seeding rate compared to other Pennisetum varieties.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with Lomandra longifolia, Westringia fruticosa, Dianella caerulea, Callistemon Little John, and other drought-tolerant native shrubs and grasses.

Common Name: NAFRAY® Fountain Grass
Botanical Name: Pennisetum alopecuroides (PA300) NAFRAY®
Family: Poaceae
Origin: Australia

Formerly known as Nafray® Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘PA300’. Note: This name change may help stop confusion between Pennisetum setaceus (C. setaceus), the exotic weedy fountain grass, and the local native Cenchrus purpurascens.

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