This hardy grass is also low maintenance.
by Ruth Siebels
Miscanthus – Gracillimus is a genus of one of 20 species of deciduous or evergreen maiden grasses, both clumping and arching stems. This is a particularly attractive grass with white mid-ribs that has silvery or pinkish plumes as seeds mature in the fall. It becomes bronze in winter to continue to provide interest.
Miscanthus – Gracillimus (hardy in zones 5 – 9) is a deciduous plant that has few pests or diseases. It tolerates poor soil and likes full sun. It is also deer and rabbit resistant and attractive to birds. It accepts all-purpose plant food and has low water needs with only occasional watering. It needs to be protected from excessive winter moisture. Its plant stalks are left for winter effect and then trimmed back by 4 to 6 inches in early spring before new growth is noticed. This is also the correct time to trim root ball for controlled growth.
This hardy maiden grass avoids many pitfalls in growing ornamental grasses, including animal life problems and need for excessive care. It is a worthwhile grass used as a landscape architectural element with effective and dramatic texture and color.
Ruth Siebels volunteers with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more information, call 501-623-6841 or email adykes@uaex.edu. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution.
