Pennisetum glaucum Inky | Pearl Millet

Pennisetum glaucum ‘Inky’ is a striking annual ornamental grass with reddish-brown to bronze foliage and large, deep red flower spikes. Growing to approximately 110 cm tall, it creates strong vertical structure and rich colour in summer and autumn gardens.

‘Inky’ is vigorous, heat-loving and drought tolerant once established. Its dramatic foliage and tall plumes make it particularly beautiful in flower borders, large containers and mass landscape plantings.

Plant Information

• Botanical name: Pennisetum glaucum
• Variety: Inky
• Common name: Pearl Millet
• Plant type: Annual ornamental grass
• Height: Approx. 110 cm
• Width: Approx. 35 cm
• Foliage: Reddish-brown to bronze
• Flower spikes: Large, dark red plumes
• Exposure: Sun – partial shade
• From sowing to mature plant: Approx. 98–112 days
• Germination: Approx. 5–8 days
• Germination temperature: 22–24°C
• Seed form: Raw seed
• Use: Borders, large pots, containers and landscape planting

Sowing & Growing

Sow 4–6 seeds per plug or small pot in a fine, well-drained seed-starting substrate. Keep evenly moist but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Seeds germinate in approximately 5–8 days at 22–24°C. After germination, lower the temperature to around 20°C. For further growth, maintain approximately 18–20°C.

Transplant once the young plants have developed a strong root system. Plant outdoors only after the danger of frost has passed.

Light & Location

Choose a warm, sunny position for the strongest growth and richest foliage colour. ‘Inky’ can also tolerate partial shade, although good light encourages stronger stems and more intense colouring.

Watering & Feeding

Water regularly while plants are becoming established. Mature plants are relatively drought tolerant, but container-grown plants will need more frequent watering during hot weather.

Feed moderately with a balanced fertiliser. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage overly soft growth and reduce the intensity of the foliage colour.

Garden Use

The tall, architectural shape and dark colouring make ‘Inky’ particularly effective as a statement plant in summer and autumn displays.

It combines beautifully with dahlias, rudbeckias, celosias, zinnias and other warm-toned flowers, adding height, movement and contrast to the planting.

Perfect for

Borders • Large containers • Mass plantings • Summer gardens • Autumn displays • Architectural planting

Pennisetum glaucum ‘Inky’ is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a bold ornamental grass with bronze-red foliage, dramatic dark red plumes and strong late-season impact.