Pacific Island Silvergrass Miscanthus floridulus

Pacific island silvergrass is the largest of the Miscanthus species in the (grass) family found in the lowland of Japan, Taiwan, and other Pacific Islands.  The erect vertical clumping form will grow quickly to a height of 8 to 12 feet and a width of 4 feet so be sure to have room in the landscape for this large ornamental grass.  It features coarse foliage with a distinct central rachis on a feathery inflorescence which can be male or female.  The seeds are dispersed by wind.  In the autumn the leaves display a beautiful purplish tint gradually turning tan by winter.

Plant in full sun in loamy moist soil with a high organic content.  It better tolerates wet soils than other Miscanthus species, as well as being salt and wind tolerant and resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits.  Propagate this plant by seed or divide in the early spring or early fall.  Prune back to the ground in early spring to rejuvenate.

Use this plant as a specimen or accent or mass plant it as a screen in a large landscape.  The flowers work well fresh or dried so consider this plant in a cutting garden.  Its coarse upright form looks attractive in a naturalized area, a large cottage garden, planted near a pond or other water garden. Or use it to provide sculptural interest in a fall or winter landscape.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  It can be weedy and difficult to remove.  The edges of the leaves are sharp, so wear gloves when handling.