Miscanthus 'Gracillimus' is a popular ornamental grass prized for its fine textured green blades and elegant fountain like form. Narrow leaves with a silvery midrib ripple gracefully in the breeze, with coppery flower plumes appearing late summer, aging to silver through fall and winter for extended garden interest.
Height & Spread: 60 - 84 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, moderately fertile soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; more frequent in heat or drought
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia. It is widely cultivated in ornamental gardens worldwide.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides winter shelter for finches, wrens, and other small birds when left uncut through the cold months.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to allow room for arching foliage and full form development.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent in perennial borders, mixed grass groupings, or as a graceful standalone accent. Adds seasonal texture and motion in urban or suburban gardens.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Brings fragrance and a rounded form to balance Miscanthus's verticality.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Offers bright yellow flowers and fine foliage that echoes the texture of Miscanthus.
- Salvia nemorosa 'May Night' - Deep purple flower spikes contrast beautifully with green foliage.
- Agastache 'Blue Fortune' - Tall spikes and pollinator activity pair well with ornamental grasses.
- Gaura lindheimeri - Adds fluttering white or pink flowers to complement the airy movement of grass plumes.