Purple fountain grass is a tender perennial grown as an annual, with fine, arching burgundy foliage that forms a graceful mound 3–4 feet tall and wide. The plumes fade to bronze-pink in fall.

Plant in full sun and well-draining soil; it tolerates drought once established. Water during prolonged dry spells. Pinch back in early summer for a bushier shape, though many gardeners leave it alone and let it arch naturally.