Freedom Giant Miscanthus Grass

Appearance

• Growing up to 12 feet in a single growing season, Freedom miscanthus has an appearance similar to other ornamental grasses. It forms a 2-foot-wide clump of rigid upright stems that resemble bamboo and are 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter. Long, narrow, lance-like leaves form along the stems. Flowering is sporadic. The entire plant turns a buff color in autumn, and the leaves drop off, leaving erect stems that persist through winter.

Cultivation

• Grow giant miscanthus grass in well-drained soil of average to above-average fertility. Plant rhizomes 3 feet apart in all directions. Cultivate to remove weeds often during the first growing season or use chemical weed killers. By its second or third growing season, miscanthus will crowd out almost all of the weeds. Harvest the dried stems of Freedom miscanthus grass in spring, after they have aged and dried in the field over winter.

Propagation and Planting

• Freedom giant miscanthus is a sterile hybrid, meaning it produces seeds that are not viable. It is propagated by root division; its rhizomes are divided and replanted to produce new plants. Propagation in a greenhouse uses rhizomes 3 to 5 inches long in individual 5-inch pots. Propagate giant miscanthus in the field using 4- to 6-inch-long rhizomes planted 4 inches deep and 3 feet apart in rows spaced 3 feet apart.

Biofuel

• Studies and trials have shown giant miscanthus grass can yield up to 20 tons of usable biomass per acre, according to research at Mississippi State University. One planting of giant miscanthus grass can yield a harvest for up to 20 years. Miscanthus grass tolerates infertile soil, drought, flooding and extreme cold. The tall grass also provides a habitat for animals.