Purple Fringe Flower (Not a Grass)
Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum · Broadleaf Evergreen Shrub (C3 Woody Perennial)
Grass Family
Hamamelidaceae (Witch-hazel Family)
Grass Category
Ornamental Shrub (Misidentified as grass)
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Ever Red' or 'Crimson Fire'
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-9; heat tolerant but can suffer tip burn in extreme cold under 0°F.
About This Grass
Dense, rounded shrub with arched branches. Mature height ranges from 1 to 10 feet depending on variety. Foliage is burgundy/purple, bearing frilly pink flowers in spring.
Blade Characteristics
Oval, alternate leaves; rough texture; 1-2 inches long; burgundy/bronze color; no ligule or auricles.
Root System
Deep, woody fibrous root system; does not form turf or thatch; established through nursery containers.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to China, Japan, and Southeast Asia
Growth Habit
Woody, mounding, multi-stemmed perennial shrub
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers acidic, well-drained soil; moderate water needs once established.
Mowing & Maintenance
Should not be mowed; requires occasional pruning for shape; fertilize in early spring with shrub food.
Special Characteristics
Provides year-round purple foliage; extremely drought tolerant; resistance to deer; not suitable for traffic.
Ecological Information
Introduced ornamental; provides nesting cover for birds; low invasive potential; used as hedge or focal point.