Feather Pennisetum
Setaria parviflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Feather pennisetum is a compact native grass that forms tidy clumps with fine-textured foliage and delicate feathery seed heads. It blooms from June through September, producing attractive plumes that add movement and texture to the garden. This medium-water grass thrives in full sun and maintains a manageable size between 1-3 feet tall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Feather Pennisetum is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This native grass supports bees and beetles with its summer blooms and seed production. The seeds also provide food for birds, while the clumping structure offers nesting material and small wildlife habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Feather Pennisetum need?
- Feather Pennisetum grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Feather Pennisetum bloom?
- Feather Pennisetum blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Feather Pennisetum native?
- Feather Pennisetum (Setaria parviflora) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 32 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Feather Pennisetum attract?
- Feather Pennisetum draws bees and beetles.
- Is Feather Pennisetum HOA-friendly?
- Feather Pennisetum is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Feather Pennisetum? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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