Miscanthus sinensis Samurai - Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Samurai' is a Chinese reed with modest, compact and small-scale growth. It is ideal for gardens with limited space. This ornamental selection graces us with narrow, trailing, delicate foliage. In autumn, the foliage warms up with coppery hues and large reddish-brown inflorescences. Elegant and animated with shimmering colours, this unobtrusive and easy-to-grow variety finds its place in all gardens or in a large container on a patio.

The 'Samurai' eulalia belongs to the Poaceae family. It is an original variety derived from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia and Oceania. This perennial grass with short rhizomes quickly develops into a non-spreading, non-invasive, compact clump. The 'Samurai' variety reaches 60cm (24in) in all directions and 1m (3ft) in height when flowering. The leaves are narrow (6mm wide) and ribbon-like. They are flexible, pointed, green, and not very long. In October, the stems or culms change colour, as do the leaves which turn orange-copper. The floral stems emerge well above the foliage in August-September, in the form of reddish-brown silky digitate spikes 25 to 30cm (10 to 12in) long. As they fade, they become pale white-silver. The plumes consist of tiny flowers that close a little after opening, only to reopen when mature. They then take on a fluffier appearance. The deciduous foliage dries up in winter, while still retaining a fairly decorative aspect when the plant, topped with faded inflorescences, becomes covered in frost.

Among the ornamental grasses, miscanthus is probably one of the most beautiful and least invasive. 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, with long leaves with a light central stripe, which turn a straw yellow colour in winter. 'Samurai' is a wonderful perennial that grows on its own once well established, perfect for contemplative or beginner gardeners, who can observe its different changes and the brilliance of its inflorescences, especially if they receive the late afternoon sun, in the west. King of patios and balconies, it has its place in a modern garden with clean lines, a Japanese garden, or in large plantings where it lightens the floral displays. In winter, it lights up the garden with its reassuring silhouette. In an urban garden, it enlivens and softens concrete structures. Pair this Chinese reed with autumn asters, tall sedums, chrysanthemums, or heleniums.