Pennisetum x-advena Rubra nana compacta
As of May 2026 this new variety has not yet been released
COMING SOON!!
(Plant Breeders Rights ZA2025**** Propagation prohibited)
For a fabulous burgundy colour contrast, this new Dwarf and Compact Pennisetum Rubra is perfect for the small garden, mass planting or just as a feature on its own. Growing only knee high in a neat pom-pom shape(hence its name Cheerleader) it is also perfect for pots. Being a grass, it is water-wise, tough, and wind resistant, growing quickly during the summer months. The strong colour, ball shape clump, and texture lends itself to Contemporary Landscape Designs.
The flowers don't really feature like the parent plants, but this enhances their neat and compact shape. The seeds from the flowers are STERILE, so it will not become a problem by propagating itself as they don't germinate.
Pictured above, with the breeder Ian Lief, is a parent plant, planted at the same time amoung the new Pennisetum Rubra Cheerleader. You can see the difference in height and compact growth habit of Cheerleader, while the parent plant would often get too large for the space it was planted in.
Cheerleader grows to a height and width of 600mm. It is frost sensitive but won't die from mild frost, just turn brown like most grasses. This is why it is best to cut it right back when it turns brown in cold areas during winter. Even in areas with warm winters, it is a good maintenance plan to cut it back to get a flush of new burgundy growth. Plant it in full sun to get the best colour and growth.
Pennisetum Rubra is already a highly popular grass mainly because of its burgundy colour. This new Cheerleader variety will now mean that it can be used in many more aspects, such as small spaces, pots, narrow gardens, as well as larger areas requiring neat colour and pom-pom shapes.
It has been bred and propagated from a single plant by, and will only be available from Leafs Wholesale Nursery, Durban, South Africa, and its licensed distributors, and retail nurseries.
(Plant Breeders Rights ZA2025**** Propagation prohibited)
www.leafs.co.za
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Also available from Leafs is the new hybrid Cuphea dwarf white 'Confetti Carpet' and Anthericum saundersiae variegated 'Starlight'.
