Miscanthus sinensis 'Variegatus'
Jap. Silver Variegated Grass
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’
Commonly called Variegated Maiden Grass.
A large, clump-forming ornamental grass with broad arching green leaves striped lengthwise with creamy white to silvery-white variegation. The foliage creates a bright, cascading effect in the landscape through the growing season. In late summer to early fall, reddish-copper flower plumes rise above the foliage and mature to silvery-white seedheads that persist into winter. (missouribotanicalgarden.org )
Type: Ornamental grass perennial
Mature Size: 4–6' wide x 5–7' high
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Arching, fountain-like, clump-forming
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Average, medium-moisture, well-drained soil; moderate water
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer into fall
Wildlife: Provides cover and winter seedhead interest; deer resistant is commonly reported. (missouribotanicalgarden.org)
Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for screening, specimen planting, mixed borders, and mass plantings where bold variegated foliage is desired. The bright striped leaves provide strong contrast with darker green plants and remain attractive even before flowering begins. (missouribotanicalgarden.org)
Care: Plant in full sun for the best variegation and flowering. Cut back old foliage to several inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. It tolerates a wide range of soils but performs best with good drainage and consistent moisture during establishment. Monitor for self-seeding in regions where Miscanthus sinensis may naturalize. (plants.ces.ncsu.ed
- Plant type
- Ornamental Grass, Perennial
- Height
- 5-7'
- Width
- 4-6'
- Hardiness zones
- 5–9
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Bloom time
- Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer
- Flower color
- Indian Red
- Leaf color
- Green, Jasmine
- Fall color
- Bronze
- Soil
- Average, Moist well-drained
- Landscape use
- Accent Plant, Container, Mass Planting, Specimen
- Shape
- Arching, Clump, Upright
- Fruit
- Yes
- Drought tolerant
- No
