Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’
With attractive green foliage with white margins Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ also has the characteristic arching or perhaps gently weeping foliage.
Regarded as as one of the easiest ornamental grass to grow, it is suited to grow with many drought tolerant perennials so companion plants include, Agastache, Rudbeckia, Echinacea, Coreopsis and many of the sedums.
Used in the garden as a feature ornamental grass, Miscanthus ‘Variegatus’ does form a substantial clump over time adding a focal point as well as strong structure to the garden border.
The flowers appear on tall stems, and last well through the season. Many gardeners leave them right through into winter to add a little extra interest. Flowers themselves are a pale pink fading to a muted yellow as they age.
Also known as Variegated Feather Grass, Variegated Silver Grass Maiden grass and variegated Japanese silver grass it does indeed look good in Japanese style gardens..
How to Plant Miscanthus ‘Variegatus’
This is a tough drought tolerant plant once established.It also grows welling coastal conditions.
- Best grown in full sun and a well drained soil.
- Soggy wet soils are not suitable.
- Dig soil over well adding some compost and aged cow manure.
- Plant and water in with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Mulch around the plant to help suppress weeds and maintain a cool root run.
- Water through the first summer during dry periods.
- From new planting to a ‘full on display’ will take 2 – 3 years.
- Over time the plant will reach 1m in height and a from a clump to around 1m across or more in good conditions.
Care and Pruning
This is a low maintenance plant, the only real care required is cutting back Miscanthus ‘Variegatus’ at the end of winter.
- Cut back right to the ground to encourage new foliage.
- Rake out dead foliage from the clump.
- Fertilise if needed.
- Mulch around clump to help prevent weeds and maintain moisture
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ is available for sale from the following nurseries
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
"Large range of rare and unusual plants.."
www.gentiananursery.com.au