Botanical: Miscanthus sinensis 'Malepartus'
Common: Ornamental Grass
Family: Poaceae
General Characteristics: Ornamental Grasses are gaining in popularity all over the U.S. due to their undemanding nature and long lasting, year round beauty. There is nothing that adds such interesting forms, textures and movement to a garden, than with this diverse plant group. They can be planted along banks of ponds, incorporated into perennial gardens, grouped together, utilized as a ground cover along walkways, paths or on steep banks. They aren't fussy about soil requirements, are drought tolerant as well as insect and disease resistant.
Tip: Plant bareroot plants only in late spring to early summer when the soil is warm, about the same time you plant your bean or corn seeds. The roots will grow only in warm soil. Planting too early in the spring may cause the roots to rot. Similar story in the fall when the roots may not grow enough to establish before the cold and wet of winter, resulting in the death of the plant.
Because we enjoy the foliage of Miscanthus so much, we like to leave it standing until the new growth starts to appear—possibly as late as May—before we cut it back. We also like the combination of the tan foliage and spring bulbs. Cut back to about 6" from the crown of the plant.
Use: Specimen, border, screen, hedge, background plant, massing, by the water, arrangements.
