Miscanthus sinensis Gold Bar - Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Gold Bar' is a dazzling Chinese Reed. It is a modest-sized variety, completely striped with gold. It is a marvel for small gardens. This grass slowly forms an upright and compact clump, densely leafy, with each ribbon regularly marked with cream-yellow lines across its width. The plume-like inflorescences turn a dark red shade over time. Compact and slow-growing, this unique grass will find its place on a balcony or patio, or prominently planted in a well-kept flower bed.

'Gold Bar' belongs to the Poaceae family. Close to the 'Zebrinus' variety, it is a horticultural selection derived from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia and Oceania. This perennial grass with short rhizomes grows in a non-spreading, tufted clump. The upright habit does not exceed 80cm (32in) in height, with a spread of 40cm (16in). The leaves are thin and ribbon-like. They are very long, slightly stiff, and dark green with light yellow stripes. The floral stems emerge just above the foliage from September to November, in the form of digitate and silky spikes, 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in) long. They are pinkish-beige at first. As they fade, they turn a burgundy shade. The plumes consist of tiny flowers that close afterwards, only to open again at maturity. They then take on a fluffier appearance.

Miscanthus is probably one of the most beautiful and least invasive of ornamental grass. It has been the subject of numerous selections and is the origin of many cultivars. They all share the same silhouette, with an upright, regular, and arched clump. They all have long leaves with a light central stripe, turning a straw-yellow colour in winter. It is a wonderful perennial that grows on its own, perfect for contemplative gardeners, and has its place in a modern garden with clean lines, or in large ensembles where it will lighten flowering. Miscanthus sinensis 'Gold Bar' should be highlighted in flower beds. Its strong personality will bring a beautiful structure and originality to the garden. In winter, just like conifers, it lights up the garden with its reassuring silhouette. In an urban garden, it will soften concrete structures. Its size allows it to fit in small gardens or even be grown in a pot on a patio or balcony.