Used as an ornamental grass in landscaping, as well as a feature in pots and containers, Miscanthus sinensis is a perennial deciduous grass with a number of cultivars. Just one of a valuable group of grasses from the genus. Also commonly known as Chinese Silver Grass, Japanese Silver Grass as well as Maiden Grass.
Some species and cultivars are also used in the perennial border, with species such as Miscanthus giganteus being evaluated as a source of bio fuel, Miscanthus may prove to be a valuable plant.
Miscanthus sinensis Gracillimus (see picture right) is perhaps the best known and most widely used, a tight clump forming habit, green foliage and reaching around 2m it is one of the later flowering cultivars and thus the flower plumes last long into winter.
Miscanthus sinensis Care
A clump forming plant, maintenance is fairly simple, either at the beginning of winter or if you like the ornamental nature of the flower heads, at the end of winter, simply cut back to the ground. As a garden plant Miscanthus are fairly easy to grow. Try a sunny position or very light dappled shade..
Species and Varieties
Miscanthus plants and species are used widely as an ornamental grass. Species such as
- M. sinensis ‘Sarabande’,
- M. sinensis Variegatus (variegated maidengrass)
- The striped form M. sinensis zebrinus.
- Kleine Fontaine
- M. sinensis ‘Flamingo’ which is a pink flowering form with a slightly pendulous habit. To around 2m (6ft) in height.
- M. sinensis ‘Strictus’
- M. sinensis ‘Yaku Jima’ is a lower growing or dwarf form suited tp smaller gardens.
M. transmorrisonensis is an ornamental species reaching nearly 1m. A species that does well in heat and is regarded as drought tolerant. Narrow glossy foliage and taller yellow flower spikes from spring to summer.
M. nepalensis is native to the Himalayas as the name suggests. Very attractive creamy flower plumes and can be cut right back in winter. However it can become weedy in some conditions as can spread through seeds and has a shallow aggressive root system. Classed as an invasive weed in New Zealand.
You may also be interested in :
Miscanthus sinensis and other species are available for sale from the following nurseries
138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
"Large range of rare and unusual plants.."
www.gentiananursery.com.au
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
'Umbango' 750 Humula Rd, Humula NSW 2652
Phone 0408692773 Great Range of Perennial plants available for sale by mail order.
www.nutshellnursery.com.au