Miscanthus sinensis Purpurascens - Silvergrass

The Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' is a superb selection of Eulalia that combines reddish-orange autumn foliage with early silver flowering and compact growth. This grass is an excellent plant for cold regions due to its great hardiness. Particularly decorative late in the season, this Chinese reed is easy to grow in the sun in any well-drained soil that remains moist in summer. Although its foliage is deciduous, its silhouette remains interesting for much of the winter.

The 'Purpurascens' Chinese Reed belongs to the poaceae family. It is a horticultural selection derived from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia and Oceania. This large perennial grass with short rhizomes develops in a non-trailing clump, it is tufted and non-invasive. Its habit is both upright and trailing, reaching a height of 1.50 m (5ft) when flowering, 1 m (3ft) for the foliage, with a spread of 50-60 cm (20-24in). The leaves are very thin, ribbon-like, very long, flexible, initially green with a light median, turning copper red in autumn and finally bronze. Numerous floral stems emerge well above the foliage in August. At the tip of these stems, silky digitate spikes of 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in) long, slightly pinkish, open. As they age through the seasons, they quickly turn silver, then golden. The plumes consist of tiny pinkish flowers that close slightly afterwards, only to reopen when mature. They then appear paler and more fluffy. The Miscanthus, hardy down to -20 °C (1°F), prefer warm exposures and a healthy, rich and deep, well-drained soil.

The Miscanthus 'Purpurascens' is a perfect for large groupings to which its presence brings structure, autumn color and a lot of grace. It is also suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. Just plant it among the giant asters and landscape roses, with its base surrounded by creeping bugles or heucheras, watch it grow and expand, play with the wind and the low autumn light, and bend under the showers. In winter, just like conifers, it illuminates the garden with its reassuring silhouette. It has its place in contemporary designs, with clean lines, in the company of bamboo or ferns if the soil is moist. Miscanthus also lend themselves well to planting as a hedge, forming a screen along a path, to isolate a part of the garden, or simply to hide the view of the street or a neighbor's garden. Growing them in large pots is also possible. Finally, this Chinese Reed allows for creating beautiful dried bouquets.