Miscanthus 'Malepartus' is a bold ornamental grass known for its tall upright habit and dramatic early blooming reddish pink flower plumes that mature to silvery white. Its wide green leaves feature a prominent white midrib and turn golden orange in fall.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 ft x 3 - 4 ft
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to moist, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Miscanthus sinensis, a species native to East Asia. It is not native to North America but widely used in ornamental landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- The tall plumes and dense foliage provide nesting material and winter shelter for small songbirds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 3 - 4 ft apart to allow for full clump development and airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Use as a specimen plant or in mass plantings for screening or structure. Effective in naturalistic plantings, borders, or as an accent in large beds.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia maxima (Giant Coneflower) - Offers large blue green leaves and bold yellow blooms that complement the vertical lines of Miscanthus.
- Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - Adds soft lavender petals that harmonize with Miscanthus’s early plumes.
- Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' - Combines upright structure and golden fall color for layered interest.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Adds fine texture and bright golden blooms that echo the fall hues of Miscanthus.
- Verbena bonariensis - Provides airy texture and purple blooms that dance around the grass blades.