FloridaLandscapeIQ
White Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Alba') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

White Fountain Grass — South Florida Plant Guide

Pennisetum setaceum 'Alba'

Family: Poaceae · Grass

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

accent grasswhite gardenevening gardenmass plantingspecimen

Style Tags

white gardenmoonlight gardenelegantnaturalisticdrought tolerant

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Low2/10

Once established (12–18 months), White Fountain Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Low-moderate water. 1-2x per week dry season. Drought tolerant once established.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release.

Schedule: February (after cut) and September balanced fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (5/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
35 ft
Mature Width
23 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
2/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
6/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find White Fountain Grass at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does White Fountain Grass grow in South Florida?

White Fountain Grass has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is White Fountain Grass safe for pets?

Yes, White Fountain Grass is considered pet-safe.

How much water does White Fountain Grass need in South Florida?

Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), White Fountain Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can White Fountain Grass tolerate salt air in South Florida?

White Fountain Grass has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is White Fountain Grass available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, White Fountain Grass is classified as: allowed. Allowed — cultivar.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed — cultivar. Limited availability.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed — cultivar. Limited availability in Broward.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed — cultivar. Better availability in Palm Beach specialty nurseries.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed — cultivar..

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed — cultivar. Very limited availability.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about White Fountain Grass

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.