Miscanthus sinensis

A deciduous clumping perennial grass that grows up to 3m tall and forms dense clumps from short underground rhizomes.

Miscanthus produces long arching green leaves with a silvery midrib and pointed tip and spread or arch. The flowers are produced in late summer to autumn in what look like silky pinkish plumes which then turn fawn brown with age and look great if left uncut through winter. The leaves also turn a rich golden brown in areas that get cooler auyumn temperatures.

Prefers full sun and rich well-draining soil. Once established, it can tolerate poor soil various pH compacted and nutrient poor soil heat and drought. The plant doesn't survive in soil with a high salt content. This plant is intolerant of shade but can withstand partially shaded conditions.

Plant when the soil is moist and warm in autumn or early spring so that a good root system develops to support vigorous new growth. Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball. Planting too closely leads to spindly growth, poor flowering and eventual decline. In a well planned border, the plants in flower should just touch each other to create a full effect without overcrowding. Planting 75cm-1m apart is recommended. Apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood & bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins.

Apply mulch annually to suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins. Water during dry summer periods to prolong flowering. Miscanthus need minimal maintenance but they do get quite tall so some staking may be required. This can be easily done in spring when the new growth is coming through. Plant supports can be bought from a local garden centre or four stakes can be put in the ground in a square or rectangle and soft netting stretched between them there can be more than one layer of net. This will support the growth as it comes through.

Miscanthus can be cut back in autumn like most other perennials but they provide good autumn colour in colder areas and provide a food source in winter for birds. Divide and replant if required in autumn when the soil is moist and warm. Dividing is easy to do lift the whole clump and push two garden forks back to back in the centre of the clump and push apart this should separate the clumps easily. Dividing should be done every two to three years if left longer the vigour of the plant will start to wane and its flowering may not be as prolific. More plants easily and for free.

Attracts birds.

No pest and disease issues.

Magnolia Garden