Pennisetum 'Lemon Squeeze'

Pennisetum 'Lemon Squeeze': Golden Fountain of Light

A bold twist on a classic, Pennisetum 'Lemon Squeeze' turns heads with its striking chartreuse-yellow foliage that glows from spring through fall. Its arching blades create a luminous fountain-like mound, topped in late summer by soft, tawny bottlebrush plumes that sway with the breeze. This warm-season grass offers brilliant contrast in mixed borders and container plantings, maintaining its colour even in full sun. Easy-care, drought tolerant, and deer resistant, it’s an ornamental standout with style and substance.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–100 cm
• Spread: 75–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Soft tan plumes
• Flowering Period: August to October
• Foliage: Bright lemon-yellow, arching
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to dry soil

Uses and Benefits: Perfect for borders, accent plantings, modern designs, or large containers. The vibrant foliage adds brightness to hot-coloured plantings and brings contrast to cool palettes. It performs well in heat and humidity, provides excellent late-season interest, and is ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. Leave the plumes for winter appeal or cut for dried arrangements.

Companion Plants: For dynamic texture and contrast, combine with Echinacea 'Sombrero Lemon Yellow Improved', Salvia 'Bumblesky', and Achillea 'Moonshine'. This trio balances the chartreuse tones with bold forms and pollinator-friendly blooms.

Care Instructions: Grow in full sun in well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment, then only during extended dry periods. Cut back to the ground in early spring. Avoid rich soils to keep the form tight and foliage colour intense.

History: Bred by Brent Horvath of Intrinsic Perennial Gardens, 'Lemon Squeeze' is a gold-foliaged selection of fountain grass developed for its vivid colour retention, heat tolerance, and strong garden performance.

Final Thoughts: With its vibrant golden glow and graceful form, Pennisetum 'Lemon Squeeze' lights up the garden like no other—proof that ornamental grasses can be both luminous and lush.