Miscanthus sinensis

Common Names

Chinese Silver Grass, Eulalia, Maiden Grass, Japanese Silver Grass, Zebra Grass, Elephant Grass

Summary

Miscanthus sinensis, commonly called Chinese silver grass or eulalia, is a tall, clump-forming ornamental grass native to East Asia. It forms dense clumps with arching leaves and feathery plumes that appear from late summer into autumn and persist into winter, providing year-round texture; height typically ranges from about 4–9 ft, with foliage colors ranging from green to silvery or pinkish hues and plumes that may be silver, pink, or reddish-brown.

Cultivation favors full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, with tolerance for a wide range of soils including clay and drought tolerance once established; the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Common uses include as a specimen, screen, mass planting, border, or in containers, with plumes and foliage offering multi-season interest. Maintenance is relatively low: cut back old growth in early spring, divide clumps every 3–4 years, and remove seed heads to minimize self-seeding; some cultivars are sterile to reduce seeding. Invasiveness risk varies by region, so sterile cultivars or careful management is advised; pest issues are generally limited, though rust can occur in dry conditions.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-8 feet

Spread

36-60 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial sun and light shade, with best growth and flowering in full sun.

Soil Type

Well-drained, fertile loam soil (pH 5.5–7.5).

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

5.5-7.5, Slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Bloom colors vary by cultivar, including white, pink, red, purple, silver, and cream.

Bloom Time

Summer and Fall

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow to orange, red/burgundy, copper/bronze, colors vary by cultivar

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts birds