Best Japanese Silver Grasses, Best Chinese Silver Grasses, Best Maiden Grasses, Best Eulalia
Adding structure and interest to the fall and winter garden, Miscanthus sinensis (Chinese Silver Grass) are fabulous ornamental grasses that should have a spot in any garden. Traditionally used in Japan in decorative art and gardens, Miscanthus made a royal entrance into occidental gardens about a century ago, thanks to the spectacular feathery plumes towering above their graceful arching foliage and their year-long interest in the garden.
Native to China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, Miscanthus sinensis are sun-loving deciduous grasses that have become so popular that they are now available in a wide range of lovely cultivars varying in height, leaf width, leaf color or flower plume color. Their erect, airy, plumed seed heads are typically produced in late summer (August or September) or early fall (October) and range from pale silver through to buff and to deep purplish-red depending on the variety. Shining in the summer sun, they all fade to silver within 3-4 weeks and turn soft and fluffy. They generally retain their good-looks well into the winter, providing a charming and architectural display.
The species form of Miscanthus sinensis is invasive in several US states. The invasive potential is of less concern for many of its ornamental cultivars, some of which are sterile. However, as a general rule, do not plant more than one cultivar on your property, and use only a vegetatively propagated cultivar that has shown little or no evidence of self-seeding in your area. Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.
When it comes to selecting the right Chinese Silver Grass, the task may become daunting as there are over 150 varieties of Miscanthus sinensis to choose from. Below is a selection of the best and most distinctive Chinese Silver Grasses that could become the highlight of your garden. Many have been acknowledged by the Royal Horticultural Society as plants of outstanding excellence for garden decoration through its Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
| Hardiness |
5 - 9 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Ornamental Grasses |
| Genus | Miscanthus |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) Fall Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer, Salt, Rabbit |
| Attracts | Birds |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Modern Garden, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden |
Growing Miscanthus sinensis can be a rewarding addition to your garden with its beautiful, feathery blooms and graceful arching form. Here are the steps to grow this ornamental grass:
Choosing a Site: Miscanthus sinensis prefers a full sun position with well-draining soil. It can tolerate partial shade, but a full sun location is needed for optimal growth and flower production. It is not overly fussy about soil type and can thrive in clay, loamy, or sandy soils.
Planting: Plant Miscanthus sinensis in early spring or early fall. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, place the plant in, and backfill with soil. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with or slightly below the surrounding soil. Space plants about 3 to 6 feet (90-180 cm) apart depending on the variety.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Miscanthus sinensis is relatively drought tolerant once established, but you should water regularly during dry periods in the first year to help the plant get established.
Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer in the spring as new growth emerges to promote healthy development. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to lush foliage but fewer blooms.
Pruning: In late winter or early spring before new growth starts, cut back the previous year’s foliage to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) above the ground. This promotes new growth and helps keep the plant tidy.
Division: Over time, the center of the clump may die out, leaving a donut-shaped plant. If this happens or if the plant becomes too large for its space, you can divide the plant in the spring. Dig up the clump, divide it into sections with a sharp shovel or knife, and replant the sections.
Pests and Diseases: Miscanthus sinensis is generally pest and disease resistant. Occasionally, it may be bothered by aphids or rust, but these issues are usually not severe.
Remember to monitor the plant’s spread, as Miscanthus sinensis can become invasive in some regions. Always follow local guidelines or recommendations regarding the cultivation of potentially invasive plants.
Botanik Foto
| Hardiness |
5 - 9 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Ornamental Grasses |
| Genus | Miscanthus |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) Fall Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer, Salt, Rabbit |
| Attracts | Birds |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Modern Garden, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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