How Fast Does Miscanthus Grow?

Identification

• Miscanthus is a genus that contains more than 20 species of grass, 14 of them occurring in nature and several hybridized versions. Maiden grass is the main species of Miscanthus grown in the United States. Cultivars such as “Dixieland,” winter hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9, or “Adagio,” hardy to USDA zones 5 through 9, are sold for their ornamental value. They have tall, slightly arching blades Maiden grass can be weedy and has the potential to invade natural areas, but it is not a huge concern, especially as the grasses sold ornamentally do not usually set seed.

Growth Rate

• Because maiden grass is deciduous, it dies completely in the wintertime. However, grasses return to their full height by summer, emerging slowly in springtime and growing quickly thereafter. This can range anywhere between 3 and 8 feet, depending on the cultivar. Varieties such as “Dixieland” and “Adagio” attain a height of 3 to 4 feet. “Gracillimus” can grow to 8 feet tall, while dwarf variety “Hinjo” is only 3 feet tall. This means that their growth rate depends on their natural height -- i.e. a 3-foot plant will grow 3 feet by summer, and an 8-foot plant 8 feet in the same time. Basal clump size expands slowly to the plant's full width, a few inches per year or so, and should be divided every three to four years to maintain health.

Culture

• Maiden grass prefers locations in full sun, though many cultivars also do fine in partial shade. Their preference, however, is a well-lighted location with moist to dry soil. They will occasionally tolerate very dry conditions, but not wet ones. Once established, they will adapt well to poor or compacted soil as well as extreme heat and drought. Typically these grasses will not self-sow, so you can leave the attractive flower plumes attached to them throughout the winter. Prune dead, standing grasses to the ground just before growth begins anew in spring, but not sooner so that you protect the crowns of the plant throughout the cooler months.

Garden Uses

• Dead grasses offer interesting winter color, fading to a beige or tan and lasting throughout the colder months. The feathery inflorescences also provide winter interest, gradually turning white or silver and lasting until spring. Dwarf cultivars can be used as groundcover, while larger varieties can be used as specimens or in screens or hedges. They also work well in cottage gardens, wild meadows and naturalized areas. Because grasses tolerate a range of soil moistures, they work well next to ponds, streams or water features, as long as roots are not standing in water.