Cenchrus purpurascens 'Purple Lea'

Purple Fountain Grass 'Purple Lea'

Botanical Name: Cenchrus purpurascens 'Purple Lea'
Family: Poaceae
Origin: Africa; cultivar selected in Australia
Plant Type: Evergreen ornamental grass

Overview

Cenchrus purpurascens 'Purple Lea' is a striking ornamental grass with deep burgundy-purple foliage and arching, feathery plumes from late summer through autumn. Compact and well-behaved compared to the species, it delivers year-round colour without invasive tendencies, making it a standout in SA's temperate and Mediterranean gardens. Ideal for borders, mass planting, and contemporary landscapes where bold texture and low maintenance are priorities.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.8–1.2 m H x 0.8–1 m W
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast; 20–35 cm per year; clumping and upright with graceful arching tips
• Foliage: Deep burgundy-purple, narrow arching blades; colour intensifies in full sun
• Flowers: Soft, feathery rose-purple plumes, late summer–autumn; non-fragrant but highly ornamental
• Seasonal Interest: Purple foliage year-round; showy plumes late summer–autumn
• Wildlife Value: Seed heads attract finches and small birds
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant once established; heat-tolerant; frost hardy to moderate (−4°C); wind-tolerant; coastal-tolerant (sheltered second-line)
• Planting Density: Mass/border: 60–80 cm apart; feature/specimen: 1–1.2 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic to cats and dogs; seed awns can occasionally irritate eyes or skin — discourage pets from chewing

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun (best colour); tolerates light shade but foliage will be greener
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam; avoid waterlogged sites
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); rarely in winter unless prolonged dry spell.
• Maintenance: Cut back hard in late winter/early spring before new growth emerges; mulch in spring; divide clumps every 3–4 years if congested
• Lifespan: 8–15 years in free-draining conditions
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA; performs well in Adelaide metro, Hills fringe and coastal second-line sites
• Soil pH: Neutral; tolerates slight alkalinity

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Mass plant for dramatic sweeps of burgundy colour in contemporary and native-inspired gardens
• Contrast against silver or lime-green foliage plants (e.g. Westringia, Acacia cognata)
• Feature in large pots or raised planters for patios and entries
• Erosion control on slopes and embankments

Why You Will Love It

Bold, low-fuss and season-long dramatic — 'Purple Lea' delivers year-round burgundy impact with feathery autumn plumes, all without the weed risk of older fountain grass varieties. A genuinely useful grass for modern SA gardens.