Miscanthus sinensis 'Arabesque'

Arabesque Japanese Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Arabesque’

A clump-forming ornamental grass with narrow, arching green leaves marked by a distinct white midrib, giving it a fine-textured, graceful look through the growing season. In late summer to early fall, it sends up airy coppery to silvery plumes above the foliage, and the clump takes on warm tan to golden tones as the season progresses. Nursery references describe it as a more compact selection, generally about 4–5' tall.  

Type: Ornamental grass perennial
Mature Size: 3–4' wide x 4–5' high
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Upright, arching, clump-forming
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Average, well-drained soil; moderate water, with decent tolerance once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer into fall
Wildlife: Provides cover and seedhead interest; not typically grown for pollinator value. Species-level references also note miscanthus can self-seed and become invasive in some regions, especially parts of the Southeast.

Features & Landscape Uses: A good choice for borders, screening, mixed perennial beds, and mass plantings where a softer, fountain-like texture is wanted. Its narrower habit and fine texture make it especially useful in smaller spaces than many larger maiden grasses, while the plumes and fall color add long-season interest.

Care: Plant in full sun for the best flowering and strongest habit. Cut back old foliage in late winter or very early spring before new growth emerges. As with other Miscanthus sinensis selections, watch for unwanted seedlings in areas where the species is known to naturalize. 

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

4-5'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Fall, Late Summer

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Tan

Soil

Average, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Container, Privacy Screen, Rock Garden

Shape

Arching, Clump, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No