Miscanthus

About 20 species of vigorous Asian perennial grasses. Many are fine ornamentals. All of the selections listed here are good for use as hedges, screens, or specimens. They all flower in fall, and except for M. sacchariflorus the plumes do not reliably have time to develop in our short season. (although for the past few years all of them have developed good flower plumes, except perhaps M. floridulus. The plants' ornamental value is such, however, that they are well worth growing for their foliage alone. Except for M. floridulus, which has strong vertical stems, the stems and foliage tend to arch outward in fountain-like fashion. It is best to mulch Miscanthus species for the winter in zones 4 and 5, at least until they are well established. In cold climates, it is also advisable to leave the old foliage in place until spring, as it provides considerable protection for the root system during the winter. The selections listed here are mostly tolerant of dry conditions. Some will grow under wet conditions, also. Can't ship to CA.

floridulus

peren • ht 9-12' • zones 5-10

giant silver grass

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, moist - wet, sun
Japan, Pacific Isl

Stems are straight, strong, and vertical, giving the plant a columnar form. Stems resemble bamboo in appearance, and while not as strong or durable as bamboo they can be used as light weight garden stakes. The showy flower plumes appear late in the season; they often do not have time to develop fully in our short season. Outstanding for use as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant. Best in a location which is not too dry. Tolerant of wet locations, wind, and salt spray. Good in coastal gardens or other exposed locations. Stems and foliage develop subtle but very attractive fall coloration. A striking ornamental, rugged and adaptable, and useful.

cat # 8O3E
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

sacchariflorus

peren • ht 8' • zones 4-10

Amur silver grass

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, dry - moist, sun
Asia

A showy plant, particularly in late summer and fall when it is laden with silvery plumes. Blossoms here in August, and the flower plumes remain showy into December. The flower plumes, especially when hit by sunlight, add a much needed touch of brilliance to the fall and early winter landscape. The long leaves, which drape vertically from the outward-arching stems, sway in the breeze in a manner reminescent of palm fronds. This species is described in the literature as a spreader but our plants, which in some cases are approaching 20 years old, have remained in tight clumps.

cat # 8O3L
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

sinensis gracillimus

peren • ht 6-7' • zones 5-9

maiden grass

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, dry - moist, sun
China, Japan

Leaves are long, arching and very slender, with a white midrib. The variety name "gracillimus" means "most graceful", which describes the plant well. Fairly drought tolerant, but also tolerant of wet soil.

cat # 8O3S
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

sinensis 'Morning Light'

peren • ht 6-7' • zones 5-9

Japanese silver grass

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, dry - wet, sun
e Asia

Thin white stripes running along the narrow leaves of this showy grass give them a silvery sheen when viewed from a distance. Foliage grows to be 4-6' tall while the plumes, which are useful in dried ornamental arrangements, reach a height of 5-7'. The flowers appear in a russet shade in October and dry to a showy ivory plume that is attractive throughout winter.

cat # 8O3T
$9.95 each

sinensis 'Variegatus'

peren • ht 6-7' • zones 5-9

variegated eulalia

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, dry - wet, sun
E Asia

Leaves are dark green, sharply variegated with white stripes running parallel to the leaf. The variegation remains sharp throughout the season. Very clean and neat in appearance. Will grow in wet soil or shallow water, but also tolerates drought quite well.

cat # 8O3U
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

sinensis zebrinus

peren • ht 6-7' • zones 5-9

zebra grass

ornamental grass, hedge - screen, dry - wet, sun
China, Japan

White bands across the leaves provide a striking effect. This variegation becomes increasingly pronounced as the summer progresses. Will grow in wet soil or shallow water, but also tolerates drought quite well.

cat # 8O3W
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea