Product Description
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus'
Common Name: Grass-Ornamental, Maiden Grass
Zone 5 to 9, Full sun to part shade
Plants reach 5 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.
Beautiful, rounded mounds of fine, silver-veined green leaves arch gracefully as they sway in the wind. In early fall, fan-like plumes emerge with a reddish tint and age to a soft silvery-white. They are complimented nicely by the golden-yellow fall color of the leaves.
Not available for shipment to NY
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus', also known as Maiden Grass or Eulalia, is a remarkably low-maintenance and hardy ornamental grass prized for its graceful form and delicate foliage. This warm-season grass is a favorite among gardeners for its adaptability, ease of care, and striking appearance throughout the seasons. It maintains its elegant shape well into the winter, providing long-lasting visual interest in the garden.
Originating from Asia, 'Gracillimus' forms a dense, upright clump of slender, arching green leaves with delicate white midribs. The foliage reaches a height of 5 to 6 feet, but with the addition of blooms, it can reach up to 7 feet tall. In late summer, reddish-copper, fan-like plumes emerge, rising above the foliage and adding a touch of elegance to the landscape. As the season progresses, these plumes transition to a silvery-white hue, creating a beautiful contrast with the foliage. The plumes can also be used in dried arrangements, extending their ornamental value.
This cultivar is one of the last Miscanthus cultivars to flower, with blooms appearing in late September. In the fall, the leaves transform into attractive shades of yellow to orange, providing a warm and inviting presence in the garden before fading to beige-tan for the winter.
'Gracillimus' is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. It is tolerant of drought, salt spray, air pollution, and even the juglone produced by black walnut trees, making it a suitable choice for various challenging environments. It is also deer resistant, adding to its appeal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants. Additionally, it attracts birds, providing a haven for wildlife in the garden.
Care Requirements Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. It has a medium-fast growth rate, quickly establishing itself in the garden. Here is a more detailed look at its care requirements:
- Soil: 'Gracillimus' prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay. While it can tolerate dry conditions, it prefers moist soils.
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant.
- Fertilizer: Fertilization is generally not necessary for 'Gracillimus'. Excessive fertilizer can weaken the plant and cause it to flop over.
- Pruning: It is best to leave the foliage standing throughout the winter for visual interest and crown protection. However, cut the foliage back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This encourages healthy new growth and maintains the plant's appearance.
- Pests and Diseases: 'Gracillimus' is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and anthracnose. Monitor the plant regularly and take appropriate measures if necessary. During hot, humid periods, fungicide treatments may be needed to control or prevent anthracnose.
- Propagation: 'Gracillimus' can be propagated by division in the spring.
Companion Plants 'Gracillimus' pairs well with a variety of plants, creating diverse and dynamic combinations in the garden. Here are some companion plant suggestions:
Shrubs and Trees:
- Ninebark (Physocarpus)
- Juniper (Juniperus)
Perennials:
- Potentilla (Potentilla)
- Aster (Aster)
- Cranesbill (Geranium)
- Catmint (Nepeta)
- Anemone x hybrida 'Königin Charlotte'
- Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii
- Salvia patens
- Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'
- Verbena bonariensis
- Baptisia australis (Blue False Indigo)
- Eupatorium rugosum 'Chocolate' ('Chocolate' Joe-Pye Weed)
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead Strain' ('Munstead' Lavender)
Grasses:
- Pennisetum alopecuroides (Fountain Grass)
For a bold and captivating display, consider pairing 'Gracillimus' with Dahlias, especially deep-colored varieties with lush foliage. Some recommended Dahlia cultivars include 'Bishop of Llandaff', 'Fascination', 'David Howard', and 'Nuit d'Ete'. Vibrant Crocosmia (Montbretia) and Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) are also excellent companion choices, offering a long-lasting and low-maintenance display.
Garden Uses Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is a versatile plant that can be used in various ways in the garden:
- Accent Plant: Its graceful form and delicate foliage make it an excellent accent plant in borders or as a standalone specimen.
- Screens and Hedges: When planted in masses, 'Gracillimus' can create effective screens or hedges, providing privacy and defining garden spaces.
- Borders: It adds height and texture to mixed borders, providing a beautiful backdrop for other perennials and shrubs.
- Coastal Gardens: Its salt tolerance makes it a suitable choice for coastal gardens, where it can withstand harsh seaside conditions.
- City Gardens: 'Gracillimus' can thrive in urban environments and add a touch of nature to city gardens.
- Cottage Gardens: Its delicate foliage and graceful form blend well with the informal style of cottage gardens.
- Prairie Plantings: 'Gracillimus' can be incorporated into prairie plantings to add height and texture. However, it is important to note that the species form of Miscanthus sinensis can be invasive in some areas. Consider using a cultivar that has shown little or no evidence of self-seeding in your region.
- Containers: It can also be grown in large containers, adding an elegant touch to patios and decks.
- Rain Gardens: Its adaptability makes it suitable for rain gardens, where it can help manage water runoff.
- Erosion Control: 'Gracillimus' can be used for erosion control on slopes and banks, thanks to its strong root system.
- Floral Arrangements: The foliage and flowers of 'Gracillimus' can be used as filler and accent elements in fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Microclimate Creation: When planted in coastal gardens or other exposed areas, 'Gracillimus' can help create a "protected microclimate" for less tolerant plants.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is a truly exceptional ornamental grass that offers a unique combination of beauty, hardiness, and versatility. Its graceful form, delicate foliage, and striking plumes create a captivating presence in the garden throughout the seasons. Whether you are looking for an accent plant, a screen, a border enhancer, or an erosion control solution, 'Gracillimus' is an excellent choice. Its low-maintenance nature and adaptability make it suitable for gardeners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. With its ability to thrive in various conditions and its wide availability, 'Gracillimus' is a must-have for any garden seeking an elegant and enduring touch.
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!
