Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus'

Porcupine Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’
Commonly called Porcupine Grass.

A bold, upright ornamental grass with stiff green blades dramatically banded with horizontal golden-yellow bars, giving it a striking porcupine-like appearance. Unlike the more arching habit of some zebra grasses, ‘Strictus’ stays strongly vertical, creating an architectural effect in the landscape. In late summer to fall, coppery-red flower plumes rise above the foliage and mature to silvery-tan seedheads that persist into winter.

Type: Ornamental grass perennial
Mature Size: 3–5' wide x 6–8' high
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Stiffly upright, clump-forming
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil; moderate water, drought tolerant once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer into fall
Wildlife: Provides cover and winter seedhead interest; deer resistant is commonly reported for this cultivar.

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for screening, specimen planting, bold vertical accents, mass plantings, and prairie-style gardens. The dramatic horizontal banding gives strong texture and contrast, especially when paired with broadleaf perennials or darker evergreens. Its upright habit makes it more formal and architectural than many other Miscanthus cultivars.

Care: Plant in full sun for the best foliage color and strongest upright growth. Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Good drainage helps prevent winter crown rot. As with other Miscanthus sinensis cultivars, monitor for self-seeding in regions where the species is considered invasive. 

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

6-8'

Width

3-5'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer

Flower color

Dark Pink

Leaf color

Gold, Olive Drab

Fall color

Tan

Soil

Average, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Arching, Clump, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No