About

Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Maxim.) Hack. is a robust, upright deciduous grass that can reach heights of over 2.5 meters. Its elongated, arching leaves measure about 3 centimeters in width and feature a distinct white midrib. In the autumn months, it produces fan-shaped, silky flower panicles that persist through the winter season.

About the genus

Miscanthus encompasses both deciduous and evergreen grasses characterized by either tufted or spreading growth forms. These grasses feature upright stems that support long, arching leaves and produce terminal panicles filled with silky spikelets, which appear in late summer or autumn.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Grass Like, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
Native to
Far East

Care notes

Cultivation
Tolerant of most conditions but best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun.
Pruning
Where stems are left for winter interest, they should be cut to the ground by early spring
Propagation
Propagate by division as new growth commences in early spring. Division is also a useful means to rejuvenate mature plants that are congested and bare at the centre
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free