Product Description
Miscanthus sinensis 'Little Zebra' PP13008 (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Grass-Ornamental, Dwarf Zebra Grass, Miscanthus
A neat and tidy appearance, ease of maintenance, and reliable bloom makes this one of the most popular new ornamental grasses on the market. Though it looks like M. 'Zebrinus' with its distinctive gold banding, this variety is shorter, more upright, and keeps its color all season.
'Little Zebra' flowers reliably every year in late summer, even when the weather is unusually cool. The lovely reddish purple plumes are held 1 foot above the foliage, then change to a creamy tan color in winter. 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.
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.
Not available for shipment to NY
Height: 3 - 4 Feet
Spread: 2 - 3 Feet
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Purple-red shades
Foliage Color: Variegated
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Poor to Average Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer
Deer Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall Color
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant, Specimen, Focal Point
Miscanthus sinensis 'Little Zebra' is a dwarf variety of maiden grass that offers a captivating display of colorful foliage and graceful plumes. It is a popular choice for adding texture, movement, and a touch of whimsy to smaller gardens or containers. Here is a closer look at its charming features:
Appearance:
- Striped Foliage: 'Little Zebra' is named for its distinctive horizontal golden-yellow stripes across slender green blades. This variegation creates a unique visual appeal and adds a touch of brightness to shady areas.
- Reddish-Bronze Plumes: In late summer, airy, reddish-bronze plumes rise above the foliage, adding a soft, billowing effect that lasts into fall.
- Compact Size: This dwarf variety typically grows to about 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for smaller gardens or containers.
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for the best color development and flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but the variegation and fall color may be less intense.
- Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers well-drained conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making it a versatile choice for many gardeners.
Care:
- Low Maintenance: 'Little Zebra' is a relatively low-maintenance grass.
- Cutting Back: Cut back the foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Dividing: Divide clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Uses:
- Smaller Gardens: Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller gardens or spaces where larger grasses might overwhelm.
- Containers: Can be grown in containers to add a touch of whimsy to patios and balconies.
- Borders: Adds texture, color, and vertical interest to borders and beds.
- Mass Plantings: Creates a beautiful and dynamic display when planted in groups.
- Erosion Control: The strong root system helps to control erosion on slopes and banks.
Additional Information:
- Deer Resistant: Deer tend to avoid Miscanthus.
- Attracts Wildlife: The seed heads provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some Miscanthus varieties, 'Little Zebra' is not considered invasive and maintains a neat, clumping habit.
If you're looking for a compact and colorful ornamental grass with distinctive striped foliage and graceful plumes, Miscanthus sinensis 'Little Zebra' is an excellent choice. It is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that will add beauty and movement to any sunny garden.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 4.25 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
