Miscanthus sinensis Gracillimus - Silvergrass

The Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is one of the most well-known varieties of Maiden Grass or Chinese Silver Grass. This tall perennial grass, with rapid growth, forms a rounded and dense clump, slightly arched at the top, composed of numerous very fine leaves that are a beautiful spring green, giving the plant its appeal. The flowering of this variety, late in the season, takes the form of feathery plumes in a coppery red color. In autumn, the leaves turn a lovely caramel to bronze color and curl up.

The 'Gracillumus' Chinese Silver Grass belongs to the family of poaceae. It is a horticultural selection derived from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia and Oceania. This tall perennial grass with short rhizomes grows in a non-trailing clump, it is tufted and non-invasive. The habit is both erect and slightly drooping, reaching a height of about 2m (7ft) when in flower, 1.30m (4ft) for the foliage, with a spread of 60-70cm (24-28in). The leaves are particularly thin, ribbon-like, very long (1 to 2m (3 to 7ft)), flexible, with a white midrib. Their color is initially bright green, then caramel in autumn, and finally bronze. Numerous flowering stems emerge well above the foliage between late September and October, in the form of silky, finger-like plumes measuring 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) in length, purplish to coppery. As they fade, they quickly take on a silvery, then golden hue. The plumes consist of tiny flowers that close up shortly after, only to open again when ripe. They then take on a paler and more downy appearance. However, the Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' rarely flowers, depending on the climate. It is primarily a decorative plant for its foliage. It has excellent hardiness, tolerating temperatures as low as -20°C (1°F).

The Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' can be placed both as a specimen plant and in groups in perennial beds, borders, and flower beds. This Chinese Silver Grass can make a lovely low hedge and forms a good ground cover. It can even be found at the edge of ponds. It is an ideal grass for gravel gardens and meadows. Its foliage as well as its floral plumes are interesting for creating beautiful dried bouquets. In Japanese culture, Miscanthus is the symbol of autumn. Some ideas for pairing it in the garden: the Feather Reed Grass, Pennisetum National Arboretum, Switch Grass Rotstrahlbusch. And also the entire range of Miscanthus.