Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Grass-Ornamental
Common Name (Alternative): Miscanthus |
An especially refined and elegant ornamental grass. Fine leaf blades are green with clean, paper-thin, white margins that give the plant a silvery cast when viewed from a distance. This plant is luminous when backlit by the early morning or late afternoon sun. It is prized for its rounded habit that never flops. Many consider 'Morning Light' to be one of the finest cultivars of Miscanthus.
This grass requires a very long, hot growing season to be able to produce flowers. When it does, they are spectacular reddish bronze plumes that appear in late fall. As the seeds mature, they become cream colored and fluffy; they make wonderful accents to the tan winter foliage.
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:
4-5 Feet
Spread:
3 Feet
Flower Color:
Red shades
Foliage Color:
Variegated
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?:
Mid-fall
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
Rock Garden
Rain Garden
Eclectic
Miscanthus is easy to grow and is a good choice for beginners. It will grow in most any soil, from loose sand to heavy clay, and does not require good drainage. Grow this grass in full sun except in warmer regions where some afternoon shade is best. Fertilization is not necessary.
Divide Miscanthus in spring or early summer to give it time to establish its roots before winter arrives. Only in the mildest of climates should it be divided in the fall.