Miscanthus sinensis Malepartus

A long-established cultivar of the far-eastern miscanthus or eulalia grasses, but still one of the very best, Miscanthus sinensis Malepartus is a vigorous, clump-forming, deciduous, warm-season grass to 2m tall with a fountain-like habit. Narrow, arching green leaves with a white mid-rib turn orange, then straw-coloured in autumn. Feathery, reddish flower-heads appear in late August, turning silvery and persisting into winter; it flowers very freely, and early for a Miscanthus sinensis cultivar. Miscanthus Malepartus makes a wonderful, architectural specimen or can be grown as part of a prairie planting. Cut back foliage in early spring to allow the new leaves to come through.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any reasonably well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of Interest: Summer, autumn, winter
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 6’6” (2m) Spread: 3’3” (1 m)