Miscanthus S. ‘Gracillimus’ 1Gal

Latin Name: Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'

Common Name: Gracillimus Maiden Grass / Fine-Leaved Maiden Grass

Zones: 5–9

Height & Spread: 4–5 feet tall (5–7 feet with flower plumes), spreading 3–4 feet wide

Descriptive Features: A classic, long-cultivated maiden grass valued for its exceptionally fine, thread-like foliage — among the narrowest of any Miscanthus cultivar — that gives the plant a soft, refined, almost feathery texture unlike bolder, broader-leaved selections. Slender green leaves with a narrow silvery-white midrib form a dense, upright, gracefully arching fountain-like clump that moves beautifully in the slightest breeze. Coppery-pink to reddish-bronze flower plumes typically appear in late summer to early fall, though in cooler northern climates the plant may not reliably flower before frost, with the foliage alone still providing strong ornamental value. Where blooms do occur, the plumes age to a fluffy, silvery-tan, persisting through much of winter for continued interest and providing seed for birds. Foliage turns warm bronze, copper, and burgundy tones in fall. Extremely low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and adaptable to a wide range of soils. Deer-resistant, with a late-winter cutback the only real required maintenance. An excellent choice as a specimen, screen, mass planting, or background accent in full sun to light shade.