Gracillimus Maiden Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus') is a graceful ornamental grass prized for its fine-textured foliage, tall arching form, and showy late-season flower plumes. Growing approximately 5-6 feet tall, with flower plumes reaching 6-8 feet, it forms a dense, upright clump of narrow green leaves with distinctive silvery-white midribs. Its flowing foliage adds movement, texture, and height to the landscape throughout the growing season.
In late summer to early fall, coppery-red flower plumes emerge above the foliage before gradually maturing to a soft silvery-white or tan. Its substantial size makes Gracillimus an excellent choice for screening, mixed borders, mass plantings, or as a dramatic specimen. The dried foliage and flower plumes can also be left standing through winter to provide additional texture and structure.
More About Gracillimus Maiden Grass
- Low Maintenance
- Moderate to Fast Growing
- Perennial Ornamental Grass
- Fine-Textured Foliage
- Screening, Mixed Border, Mass Planting, Accent, Specimen
- Tall, Upright, Arching Habit
- Showy Late-Season Flower Plumes
- Provides Winter Texture and Structure
- Deer Resistant
- Drought Tolerant Once Established
Height: 5-6 Feet, 6-8 Feet When in Bloom
Spread: 3-5 Feet
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
Characteristics
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Sun (best flowering in full sun)
- Season of Interest: Summer, Fall, Winter Texture
- Soil Moisture: Average, Well Draining
- Attributes: Clumping, Upright, Arching, Fine Textured
- Foliage Color: Green with Silvery-White Midrib
- Flower Color: Coppery Red, Maturing to Silvery-White or Tan
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun for the strongest growth and best flower production. Gracillimus can tolerate some light shade, but excessive shade may result in weaker, floppier growth and fewer flower plumes. It is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions but performs best in well-drained soil.
Watering:
Water consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Gracillimus is moderately drought tolerant and generally requires supplemental watering only during extended periods of hot, dry weather.
Fertilizing:
Gracillimus generally requires very little fertilizer. If needed, apply a light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can encourage overly vigorous or floppy growth.
Pruning:
Leave the foliage and dried flower plumes standing through winter for added texture and structure. Cut the entire plant back to approximately 4-6 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
State Restrictions: Miscanthus sinensis is restricted, prohibited, or being phased out in certain states, including Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, Connecticut, and Delaware. Please check your local regulations before purchasing.
