Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens'

Purple Maiden Grass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Purpurascens’
Commonly called Flame Grass.

A compact, clump-forming ornamental grass noted for outstanding fall color. The narrow green leaves develop reddish tones through summer, then turn brilliant orange-red to reddish-purple in fall, often darkening to burgundy for winter interest. Silky plumes emerge in late summer to early fall and age to white or silvery tan.

Type: Ornamental grass perennial
Mature Size: 3–4' wide x 3–5' high
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Upright, arching, clump-forming
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Average to moist, well-drained soil; moderate water
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer into fall
Wildlife: Birds; provides cover and seedhead interest

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, fall-color accent, mixed-border grass, mass planting, or seasonal screen. It is especially useful where strong orange-red autumn foliage is wanted in a smaller miscanthus.

Care: Plant in full sun for best color and flowering. Cut old foliage back in late winter or very early spring before new growth begins. Monitor for unwanted seedlings where Miscanthus sinensis is known to naturalize. 

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

3-5'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Early Fall, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Indian Red

Soil

Average, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Arching, Clumping, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No