Miscanthus sinensis Sarabande - Silvergrass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Sarabande' is a variety of eulalia or Chinese Silver Grass that is quite impressive in size, with fine green foliage with white midribs that become almost silvery towards the end of the season. It is also characterised by excellent cold resistance and more reliable summer flowering than the variety 'Gracillimus', to which it is similar. Its initially copper-coloured flower spikes turn golden as they fade. Particularly decorative at the end of the season, miscanthus is an easy-to-grow grass that thrives in sunny, well-drained soil that is not too dry. While its foliage is deciduous, its silhouette remains decorative for much of the winter.

The 'Sarabande' Chinese silver grass 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 grows in a non-spreading clump. It is tufted and non-invasive. Its upright and slightly spreading habit is dense, reaching a height of 2m (7ft) when in flower, 1.6m (5ft) for the foliage, with a spread of 70 to 80cm (28 to 32in). The leaves are very thin, ribbon-like, very long, and flexible. They are initially green with white midribs, then very light in autumn. An abundance of floral stems emerges well above the foliage in August. Digitate and silky flower plumes appear at the tips of these stems. They are initially copper-coloured and measure 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) in length. As they fade, they quickly take on a golden hue. The plumes consist of tiny flowers that close after opening, only to open again at maturity. They then take on a paler and fluffier appearance. Miscanthus, hardy down to -20°C (-4°F), prefers warm exposures and healthy, rich, deep, well-drained soil.

Miscanthus 'Sarabande' is a very decorative "herb" that is perfect for large borders to which it brings structure and grace. It is suitable for wild gardens and contemplative gardeners. Just plant it among 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 light of autumn, and bend under rain showers. In winter, 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 is well-suited for planting as a hedge, creating a screen along a pathway, isolating a part of the garden, or simply hiding the view of the street or a neighbour's garden. It can also be grown in large containers. Its inflorescences are ideal for creating beautiful dried bouquets.