Miscanthus giganteus Alligator

Miscanthus x giganteus Alligator is a spectacular Chinese reed. It is a magnificent grass with unusual foliage that presents irregular horizontal yellow macules, resembling alligator skin. Its long trailing leaves gather at their tips to form a vigorous upright clump that stands out in the garden when its large white plume inflorescences appear in late summer. Make room for this giant grass and showcase it in the garden. 

Miscanthus Alligator belongs to the Poaceae family. Its parent, M. x giganteus, better known as Elephant Grass, is the result of natural hybridisation between M. sinensis and M. sacchariflorus, two large species native to China and Japan. This large perennial and clump-forming (meaning its rhizomes do not spread) grass, with short rhizomes, forms a strong upright clump, easily reaching 2m (7ft) in height, with a spread of 1m (3ft). The leaves are thin and narrow, very long, slightly trailing at their tips, with a variegated medium green colour. Long flowering stems emerge from the foliage from September to November, in the form of silky digitate spikes, 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in) long, which are initially coloured brown-pink. When fading, they turn white-silver. The plumes consist of tiny pink flowers that close a little after opening, to reopen when mature. They then take on a paler and fluffier appearance. Its growth rate is quite rapid in moist and fertile soil. It dries up in winter, with new leaves emerging from the stump each spring.

Miscanthus Alligator is an architectural plant, which remains decorative for a large part of the year, including in winter where its silhouette catches the eye. It is ideal for large beds, to which its strong presence brings a beautiful structure and a lot of grace. It is also suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. Plant it among asters, behind perpetual roses. Watch it grow and fill out, play with the wind and the low autumn light, and bend under rain showers. This giant grass has its place in modern gardens with clean lines, in the company of bamboo or ferns if the soil is moist. Miscanthus are well suited for planting as a hedge, creating a screen along a path, 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 garden boundaries, creating a natural transition to the open areas. In an urban garden, Miscanthus Alligator softens concrete structures. They can also be grown in large pots. They can be planted near water features, but in well-drained soil. They are also ideal for creating 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.