Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' – ornamental grass with soft, cascading plumes

Pennisetum villosum , commonly known as white ornamental millet, is an annual ornamental grass popular for its soft, graceful plumes and elegant appearance. The cultivar 'Cream Falls' is distinguished by its cream-colored, fluffy plumes and light green foliage, which create an airy, cascading texture. This makes the grass a romantic and soft accent for borders, cutting gardens, and pots.

Thanks to its soft, flowing plumes, Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' is ideal for modern gardens, ornamental gardens, and cutting gardens. The plumes are also excellent as cut flowers or for dried bouquets.

Description and growth habit – graceful and airy

Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' grows compact and bushy, reaching a height of 70–90 cm and a width of about 40–60 cm. Its narrow, light green leaves form a sturdy base for the long, soft, cream-colored plumes, which create a graceful, cascading effect.

Flowering lasts from summer to autumn, the plumes adding a romantic and airy touch to the garden. Thanks to their flexible stems, the plumes remain beautifully upright in bouquets or elegantly draped in borders.

Cultivation and care

Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' is an easy-to-grow 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 development; light shade is possible but reduces the intensity of the foliage.

• 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.

This ornamental grass is low-maintenance and grows quickly into a soft, elegant accent in borders, pots or cutting gardens.

Application and ornamental value

Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' is versatile:

• Borders and ornamental gardens – adds height, movement and soft texture.

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

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

• Combinations – perfect for combining with perennials, annuals and other ornamental grasses.

• Romantic gardens – create an airy, elegant effect with the cascading cream-colored plumes.

With its long flowering period and soft, cascading plumes, Pennisetum villosum 'Cream Falls' is a real mood-setter in summer and autumn gardens.