Overview
Miscanthus sinensis is a grass in the genus Miscanthus, part of the Poaceae family. It typically grows around 4.0 m tall. Miscanthus sinensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to E Asia.
About the genus
Miscanthus, or silvergrass, is a genus of African, Eurasian, and Pacific Island plants in the grass family, Poaceae. The name is derived from the Greek words "miskos", meaning "stem", and "anthos", meaning "flower", in reference to the stalked spikelets on plants of this genus. Several species are known for their height and biomass production, and may be used as ornamental grasses.
Wikipedia contributors, "Miscanthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Miscanthus
In the garden
Miscanthus sinensis is a large grass native to eastern Asia that can reach about 4.0 m and bears airy flower plumes from August to October. Its stature makes it a useful architectural element where a strong vertical presence is needed. Choose a sunny site and plant in soils that may be sandy, loamy or clay, provided they are moist but well drained; avoid waterlogged hollows. The species is rated H7, which translates to fully hardy in UK gardens and means it tolerates typical winter conditions across the country. In USDA terms it corresponds to zones 4–9. Allow plenty of space for a specimen or for groups in a large border; its height suits background planting, tall mixed borders and screens where late-season structure is required. Flowering from August to October gives a seasonal display at the end of summer and into autumn, when the plumes top the foliage and add height to the plot.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Miscanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Miscanthus sinensis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Height
- 4.0 m
- Native to
- E Asia
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Miscanthus sinensis?
Miscanthus sinensis prefers full sun.
What soil does Miscanthus sinensis need?
Miscanthus sinensis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Miscanthus sinensis grow?
Miscanthus sinensis reaches a height of 4.0 m.
Is Miscanthus sinensis hardy in the UK?
Miscanthus sinensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Miscanthus genus
- Miscanthus sacchariflorusAmur silver grass
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Silberfeder'eulalia 'Silberfeder'
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Silver Charm'Chinese Silver Grass
- Miscanthus x giganteus 'Gilt Edge' (v)eulalia 'Gilt Edge'