Miscanthus sinensis Variegatus

Variegated Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ is a large, bright ornamental perennial grass with arching green leaves strongly striped lengthwise with creamy-white variegation. It forms a graceful fountain-shaped clump that adds light color, movement, and strong texture to the landscape. Reddish-bronze plumes appear in late summer to fall and mature to silvery-tan, often remaining attractive into winter. The foliage may take on tan to straw tones in fall.

Type: Ornamental grass / perennial
Mature Size: 4–5 ft. wide × 5–8 ft. tall
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Upright-arching, fountain-shaped clump
Light: Full sun to part sun
Soil / Water: Average to well-drained soil; medium water, drought tolerant once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer to fall; plumes may persist into winter
Wildlife: Deer resistant; provides seasonal cover and winter texture

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent as a specimen grass, large border accent, screen, backdrop, mass planting, or bright contrast plant. Its bold white-striped foliage is especially useful for lighting up darker plantings or pairing with evergreens, purple foliage, stone, or mixed perennial borders.

Care:
Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Divide in spring when clumps become too large or begin to thin in the center. Best color, form, and flowering occur in full sun.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

5-8'

Width

4-5'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer

Flower color

White

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Arching, Clump, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No