Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' – ornamental millet with intense purple plumes

Pennisetum glaucum , commonly known as ornamental millet, is an annual ornamental grass popular for its decorative plumes and robust habit. The cultivar 'Purple Baron' stands out with its intense purple, long plumes and deep purple to dark green leaves, adding a dramatic pop of color to borders, cutting gardens, and pots.

Thanks to its light, graceful movement in the wind and sturdy stems, Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' is ideal for cutting gardens, ornamental gardens, and modern garden designs. The plumes are also excellent as cut flowers or for dried bouquets.

Description and growth habit – elegant and striking

Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' grows upright and bushy, reaching a height of 120–150 cm and a width of about 60–80 cm. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves are deep purple to dark green and form a sturdy base for the long, decorative plumes, which can reach up to 25 cm in length.

Flowering occurs from summer to autumn, the purple plumes creating an airy and graceful effect that is highly decorative in both the garden and in flower arrangements. Thanks to its sturdy stems, this ornamental grass is also excellent as a cut flower in vases or dried bouquets.

Cultivation and care

Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' is an easy annual, provided the right conditions are provided:

• Sowing: Sow indoors in March or directly outdoors after the last frost.

• Position: Full sun for optimal leaf and plume color; light shade is acceptable but reduces leaf intensity.

• Soil: Well-drained, slightly nutritious; avoid wet feet.

• Watering: Water regularly during dry periods; short-term drought is tolerated well.

• Care: Spent flowers can be used in dried bouquets; plants can be pruned back at the end of the season.

The ornamental grass is relatively low-maintenance and grows quickly into a spectacular eye-catcher in annual borders and pots.

Application and ornamental value

Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' is versatile:

• Borders and ornamental gardens – adds height, colour and movement to flower-filled borders.

• Pot culture – suitable for terraces, balconies and patios.

• Pick-your-own gardens – plumes can be used in fresh bouquets or dried bouquets.

• Combinations – excellent with perennials, annual flowers and other ornamental grasses.

• Modern gardens – create a dramatic splash of colour with intense purple hues.

The long flowering period and striking colour make Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Baron' a real eye-catcher in summer and autumn gardens.