Overview
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is a tufted grass like in the genus Miscanthus, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include prairie planting, city and courtyard gardens and cottage and informal garden.
About
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is a compact, clump-forming perennial grass known for its slender, arching foliage featuring prominent white midribs. In late summer, it produces delicate flower panicles that are curled and exhibit a subtle purple hue.
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
Best soil and position for Miscanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Prairie planting, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'
- Cultivation
- Grow in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet
- Pruning
- Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or by division in spring. Can be slow to establish
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'?
Grow in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet.
Where is the best place to plant Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'?
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' need?
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'?
Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring.
How big does Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' grow?
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' hardy in the UK?
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'?
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or by division in spring. Can be slow to establish.