Miscanthus 'Purpurascens' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Grass-Ornamental
Common Name (Alternative): Flame Grass |
One of the very best Miscanthus cultivars available today. Its fantastic fall color, upright habit, early flowering time, and extreme cold hardiness have certainly earned it this recognition.
From early to midseason, the leaves are a pleasant grey-green. In the fall, they turn a brilliant reddish orange, hence the name 'Flame Grass'. The seed heads begin to appear in late summer with magenta hues. As winter approaches, they transform into silky white panicles which are especially lovely when backlit by the early morning or late afternoon sun.
Miscanthus is versatile from a design standpoint; it can be used as a specimen, for massing or screening, in large containers, or at the pond's edge. Plant this grass where its wonderful winter interest can be enjoyed.
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
4-6 Feet
Spread:
2 Feet
Flower Color:
White Shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Part shade (4-6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Average water needs
Consistent water needs
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Late summer
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Average Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0)
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Eclectic
M. 'Purpurascens' is easy to grow, though it is not drought-tolerant and suffers in extreme heat. Supplemental watering and placement in partial shade will help offset any heat stress. This ornamental grass will grow in almost any soil, from loose sand to heavy clay, and does not require good drainage. Fertilization is not necessary either. Divide this grass in spring or early summer to give it time to establish its roots before winter arrives. Only in the mildest of climates should this grass be divided in the fall.