Miscanthus sinensis (eulalia) — Grass

Overview

Miscanthus sinensis is a grass in the genus Miscanthus, part of the Q43238 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

Miscanthus sinensis is a tall ornamental grass noted for its height, reaching up to 4.0 m and producing prominent flower plumes from August to October. It originates from East Asia. Plant in full sun on sandy, loamy or clay soils that remain moist but well drained. Rated H7, it is fully hardy in UK conditions.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Miscanthus sinensis

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.

More in the Miscanthus genus

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