Product Description
Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' PP27074 (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Ornamental Grass, Miscanthus
‘Oktoberfest’ is the gold standard in Miscanthus. The wide, deep green leaves with a white midrib form a narrowly upright tower about 4½’ tall before blooming.
In late summer or early fall, the foliage develops deep purple and red highlights which complement the showy flowers that emerge a rich shade of shimmering burgundy and copper, then mature into fluffy, creamy tan seed heads. Compared to older Miscanthus like ‘Gracillimus’, this selection blooms much earlier (making it better for northern climates where the growing season is shorter) and has much improved fall color. It also develops its beautiful fall color earlier in the season.
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: 6.0-7.0 Feet
Spread: 3.0-4.0 Feet
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Purple shades, Tan shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Poor to Average Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Fall
Deer Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall Color
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Easy To Grow, Good For Screening, Attractive Foliage, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant, Specimen, Focal Point
Imagine a towering grass that lights up your autumn garden with fiery hues of red and purple, even before the leaves begin to turn. That is the magic of Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest', a warm season ornamental grass introduced in 2013. Bred by Hans Hansen and Kevin Hurd at Walters Gardens, this cultivar of Miscanthus sinensis is a showstopper, renowned for its vibrant fall foliage and remarkably early bloom time. This unique combination makes 'Oktoberfest' a particularly popular choice for gardeners in northern climates with shorter growing seasons.
Characteristics
Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' boasts wide, deep green leaves adorned with a striking white midrib, creating a captivating contrast. These leaves form an elegant, upright, vase-shaped clump, reaching a height of around 4.5 feet before the flowers emerge. As summer transitions to fall, the foliage transforms into a spectacle of deep purple and red hues, adding warmth and depth to the landscape. Furthermore, the foliage has a cascading effect, creating a sense of movement and texture.
Unlike other Maiden Grasses that bloom later in the season, 'Oktoberfest' begins its floral display earlier, typically in late summer. The flowers first appear as soft, silky plumes in shades of shimmering burgundy and copper. As they mature, the plumes transition to a silvery effect, eventually developing into fluffy, creamy-white seed heads that persist from early fall to late winter, providing lasting visual interest.
'Oktoberfest' is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. It reaches a mature height of 175 cm (approximately 5.7 feet) and a spread of 125-150 cm (approximately 4.1-4.9 feet).
Care Requirements
One of the most appealing aspects of Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' is its low-maintenance nature. This grass thrives in a wide range of conditions, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners or those new to ornamental grasses. It tolerates various soil types, from loose sand to heavy clay, and does not require meticulous drainage. While it prefers full sun, 'Oktoberfest' can also handle some afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. Perhaps most conveniently, fertilization is not necessary for this vigorous grower.
To ensure the plant's continued health and vitality, divide it every few years in the spring. Although the foliage can be left standing throughout the winter for added visual interest, it is best to prune it back in early to mid-spring. This allows for fresh new growth to emerge and prevents the plant from becoming overcrowded.
Growth Habits
As a warm season grass, Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' has a distinct growth pattern. It patiently waits for warmer temperatures in early to midsummer before pushing out new growth. This delayed emergence is followed by a stunning floral display in late summer or fall, with the blooms often persisting into the winter months. This grass is known for its resilience, exhibiting resistance to deer and tolerance to heat, humidity, and drought.
While generally non-invasive, it is important to note that Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' has the potential to spread via seeds in certain conditions. This is particularly relevant when multiple cultivars are planted in close proximity, as cross-pollination can occur. To minimize the risk of unwanted spreading, consider planting only one cultivar or opting for native alternatives if other Miscanthus varieties are present in your area.
Uses
Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' is a remarkably versatile plant, offering a wide range of applications in the landscape. Its upright habit and substantial size make it an excellent choice for screening or creating a sense of privacy. When planted en masse, 'Oktoberfest' forms a dramatic backdrop, adding texture and movement to borders and garden beds. Its architectural form also makes it a striking specimen plant, drawing the eye and adding a focal point to any garden.
This grass is equally at home in more naturalistic settings. Its adaptability to various soil types and moisture levels makes it well-suited for rain gardens or planting near a pond's edge. Additionally, the wide leaves of 'Oktoberfest' provide excellent coverage for dying bulb foliage, ensuring a tidy and visually appealing garden throughout the seasons. It is also a good choice for roadside planting.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Oktoberfest' stands out with its early bloom time, vibrant fall foliage, and adaptability to a wide range of conditions. This low-maintenance grass requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners. Whether used as a specimen plant, in mass plantings, or for screening, 'Oktoberfest' adds a touch of drama and elegance to any garden. Its unique characteristics, combined with its ease of cultivation, make it a must-have for those seeking to create a dynamic and captivating landscape.
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!
