Miscanthus floridulus

Miscanthus floridulus is a spectacular Chinese reed. Unlike Miscanthus giganteus, with which it is sometimes confused, it is not invasive. It is a gigantic grass that develops robust stems carrying long trailing leaves at their ends, similar to the Provence cane. In favourable climates, the plant blooms abundantly at the end of summer, adorned with large decorative silver-white panicles. This eulalia has a bamboo-like appearance that does not go unnoticed in the garden, whether planted as a hedge or as a standalone plant.

Miscanthus floridulus belongs to the Poaceae family, native to China and Japan. This large perennial and clumping grass, with non-trailing short rhizomes, forms a strong upright clump, reaching between 2 and 3m (7 to 10ft) in height, with a spread of 1 to 1.3m (3 to 4ft). The leaves are quite narrow, very long, slightly trailing at their ends, light green, and are crossed by a silvery midrib. This species blooms abundantly in regions where the summer is long and hot. Long floral stems emerge from the foliage between September and October, in the form of silky finger-like spikes, 30 to 50cm (12 to 20in) long. When withering, they take on a silver-white hue. The feathery plumes are made up of tiny pinkish flowers that close slightly after opening, only to open again when mature. They then take on a paler and fluffier appearance. Its growth rate is quite rapid in fertile soil that remains slightly moist. It dries up in winter, with new leaves emerging from the stump each spring.

The giant eulalia is an architectural plant that remains decorative for a large part of the year, including winter where its silhouette catches the eye. It is a giant "grass" that is made for large beds to which its strong presence brings structure and grace. It is also suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. This miscanthus fits well in exotic or modern gardens with clean lines, alongside bamboo. Miscanthus can also be used for hedge planting, creating a screen to isolate a part of the garden or simply to hide the view of the street or a neighbour's garden. In this use, they offer a somewhat unreal walk amidst their vegetation. These grasses bring volume and texture to the boundaries of the garden, creating a natural transition to the open areas. In an urban garden, Miscanthus floridulus will soften concrete structures. It is also possible to grow it in large containers. It can also be planted near water sources, but in well-drained soil. It can be used to create beautiful dried bouquets.

Some varieties of miscanthus are currently being studied, as they offer real prospects for the creation of standing crop or fibre panels. These plants have several advantages: they do not deplete the soil, tolerate polluted soils well, and can be incinerated or even used to produce biofuel.