Miscanthus sinensis Kleine Silberspinne - Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Kleine Silberspinne' is a dwarf cultivar of 'Silberspinne'. It shares all its characteristics except for its compact and stocky habit that sets it apart from its larger counterpart. The narrow, ribbon-like leaves are dark green with white veins and turn bright hues of red and orange during autumn. It has a dense, upright, and stocky growth habit, making it an attractive ornamental grass for most of the year. In September, the relatively loose panicles bloom, tinged with red and white, and become silvery and fluffy at maturity. This grass is perfect for small gardens, perennial borders, or container gardening.

Kleine Silberspinne, also known as Chinese silver grass, is a type of plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a horticultural form originating from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia and Oceania. This tall perennial grass has short rhizomes and grows in a non-running clump, forming a dense and upright habit. It can reach up to 1 metre (3 to 4 feet) in height, with a spread of 50 cm (19.7 in). The leaves are slender, long, and flexible, initially dark green with white veins, then turning coppery-red in autumn. From September to November, long floral stems emerge from the foliage in finger-like, silky spikes that measure 20 cm (7.9 in) in length, tinted pinkish-red with white. As they fade, they take on a silvery hue. The plumes consist of tiny reddish flowers that close up a bit afterwards, then open again at maturity, taking on a paler and fluffier appearance.

Miscanthus is a deciduous plant that remains interesting throughout most of the winter. It is a grass intended to be planted in the background of large borders, where its strong presence brings a beautiful structure and a lot of grace. It is suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. If you plant it among asters, garden chrysanthemums or perpetual roses, you can watch it grow and fill out, play with the wind and the low autumn light, and bend under the showers. These grasses can add volume and texture to perennial borders, lightening the flowering displays. In modern gardens with clean lines, they can be planted alongside dwarf bamboo or ferns, especially if the soil is moist. If you have an urban garden, Miscanthus 'Kleine Silberspinne' can be used to soften concrete structures. Cultivating it in large containers is also highly recommended, allowing you to furnish the terrace or balcony with great elegance and simplicity.