Zebra Grass

(Miscanthus sinensis `Strictus')

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 4 to 8 feet
Shape: Spreading

Long, arching, grass-like foliage has horizontal yellow bands. Flowering plumes appear in late summer and fall.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 5 to 9
Light: Full sun
Moisture: Moist to dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include ground cover and specimen plant.

Planting Notes:

Grows best in full sun.
Plant in soil that is kept moist, but not soggy, during growing season.

Care:

Cut foliage to ground in late winter.
Propagate in spring by dividing woody roots, using a saw if clumps are large.

Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.
Other cultivars of MISCANTHUS SINENSIS:

`Gracillimus' (Maiden Grass) is fine-textured. Leaves are buff-colored with curled tips.
`Purpurascens' (Red Silver Grass) has silvery red plumes in summer. In fall, the grassy leaves turn red to purple. Growth reaches 3 to 4 feet.

Comments:

Nice to use in a large area, especially near the seashore.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-609 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ground Covers"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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