Grass, Smoke Signal #1
Smoke Signal
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Smoke Signal’
Height: Typically 8–12 inches tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
Spread: Approximately 12–16 inches wide
Spacing: Plant 12–16 inches apart for a cohesive, textural display
Growth Rate: Slow
Deciduous
Description
Smoke Signal is a showstopping ornamental grass that infuses your landscape with a bright, contemporary statement. In the early morning light, its vibrant green blades—accented by a subtle silver midrib—stand in a compact clump that is both tidy and striking. As the season advances, the delicate seed heads emerge in a soft, smoky hue, offering an inspiring textural contrast that endures well into winter. Perfectly scaled for Michigan’s climate, Smoke Signal’s modest stature makes it an ideal choice for borders, mass plantings, or as a refined accent in container arrangements. Its naturally low, slow-spreading habit ensures a polished look that requires minimal upkeep, while its inherent deer resistance keeps your landscape looking pristine.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives best in full sun to partial shade; aim for a minimum of 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its vibrant foliage and crisp form.
- Watering: Water regularly after planting to establish roots and promote vigorous growth; once established, water occasionally, depending on rainfall
- Mulching: Apply a 1–2 inch layer of mulch around the clump to help conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature.
- Pruning: Minimal maintenance is required; simply remove any dead or browning foliage in early spring to refresh the clump for new growth.
Elevate your landscape with the subtle yet stunning presence of Smoke Signal—an ornamental grass that delivers refined texture, enduring seasonal interest, and an effortlessly modern appeal.
