Types of Ornamental Grasses

Japanese Silver Grass
Miscanthus sinensis

Zone: 5-9

Height: 3-6 feet

Japanese Silver Grass is one of the most often used grasses containing a large number of individual cultivars. Japanese silver grass is a robust, upright, dense grass growing in very tight clumps. Foliage is green, coarse in texture with some varieties having variegated foliage. Flowers are white, pinkish or reddish in color blooming from late August until frost. 'Autumn Light' and 'November Sunset' are two excellent varieties for Zone 4 climates. Japanese silver grass can be used as specimens or accent plants or as a medium screen. The plants will grow in a wide variety of soils but require ample fertility, moisture and full sun. Some plants will get large and so should be given ample room to grow. Japanese silver grass has outstanding fall color and in combination with flowers offer a nice display. Miscanthus must be cut back in early spring before growth starts. Cultivars to look for: 'Adagio', 'Autumn Light', 'Blondo', 'Dixieland', 'Flamingo', 'Kaskade', 'Little Nicky', 'Malepartus', 'November Sunset', 'Puenktchen' and 'Variegataus'.

Additional Types of Grasses