Pennisetum glaucum Inky | Pearl Millet

Pennisetum glaucum ‘Inky’ | Pearl Millet

Striking red plumes and bold, bronze foliage — a true late-season statement.
‘Inky’ is an outstanding ornamental millet, producing large, deep-red flower spikes that rise dramatically above reddish-brown foliage. With its strong vertical form, rich tones, and late-season color, this variety makes a superb focal point in summer and autumn plantings.

A vigorous, drought-tolerant grass, Pennisetum glaucum ‘Inky’ thrives in sunny or lightly shaded spots and performs beautifully in containers, mixed borders, and landscape plantings. Its bold texture and saturated hues make it an eye-catching companion for dahlias, rudbeckias, celosias, and other warm-season bloomers.

Plant Features

• Botanical name: Pennisetum glaucum ‘Inky’
• Common name: Pearl Millet
• Type: Annual ornamental grass
• Foliage: Reddish-brown, glossy leaves
• Flower spikes: Large, dark red plumes
• Height: Approx. 110 cm (43″)
• Spread: Approx. 35 cm (14″)
• Exposure: Full sun – partial shade
• Growth habit: Upright, strong, architectural
• Crop time: 14–16 weeks
• Drought tolerance: Excellent

How to Grow

Sowing:

• Sow 4–6 seeds per plug or small pot.
• Use fine, well-drained seed compost.
• Keep evenly moist but never wet.

Germination:

• Ideal temperature: 22–24 °C (72–76 °F).
• Germination occurs in 5–8 days.
• After emergence, lower to 20 °C (68 °F) day and night.

Growing on:

• Maintain 18–20 °C (64–68 °F) for steady growth.
• Warm conditions accelerate development.
• Transplant once roots fill the plug.

Fertilization:

• Maintain EC < 0.7 during early growth.
• Begin feeding below 100 ppm N and gradually increase to 100–175 ppm N with a balanced fertilizer.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen to preserve compact habit and strong color.

Landscape & Design Use

• Excellent for mass plantings, autumn displays, and large containers.
• Works beautifully with warm-toned perennials and late-summer annuals.
• Adds dramatic height, texture, and movement to the garden.

Why Grow ‘Inky’

‘Inky’ combines strength, color, and structure in one impressive grass. Its tall, velvety plumes and bronze foliage create instant drama — perfect for modern landscape design, late-summer bouquets, and container gardens that last well into autumn.