Porcupine Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus') is a bold ornamental grass prized for its distinctive horizontally banded foliage and strong, upright growth habit. Growing approximately 5-7 feet tall, with flower plumes extending above the foliage, it produces narrow green leaves marked with bright golden-yellow horizontal bands. Unlike the more arching habit of many Miscanthus varieties, Strictus maintains a relatively rigid, vertical form that adds height and structure to the landscape.
In late summer to early fall, attractive coppery-red flower plumes emerge above the foliage before gradually maturing to a soft silvery-tan. Porcupine Grass makes an excellent choice for screening, mixed borders, mass plantings, or as a dramatic specimen. Its dried foliage and flower plumes can also be left standing through winter to provide additional texture and structure.
More About Porcupine Grass
- Low Maintenance
- Moderate to Fast Growing
- Perennial Ornamental Grass
- Distinctive Horizontal Yellow Bands
- Screening, Mixed Border, Mass Planting, Accent, Specimen
- Tall, Strong Upright Habit
- Showy Late-Season Flower Plumes
- Provides Winter Texture and Structure
- Deer Resistant
- Drought Tolerant Once Established
Height: 5-7 Feet, Taller When in Bloom
Spread: 3-4 Feet
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
Characteristics
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Sun (best color and flowering in full sun)
- Season of Interest: Summer, Fall, Winter Texture
- Soil Moisture: Average, Well Draining
- Attributes: Clumping, Upright, Variegated
- Foliage Color: Green with Horizontal Golden-Yellow Bands
- Flower Color: Coppery Red, Maturing to Silvery-Tan
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun for the strongest upright growth, best foliage coloration, and most reliable flowering. Porcupine Grass can tolerate some light shade, but excessive shade may result in weaker growth, less pronounced banding, and fewer flower plumes. It is adaptable to a variety of soils but performs best in well-drained conditions.
Watering:
Water consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Porcupine Grass is moderately drought tolerant and generally requires supplemental watering only during extended periods of hot, dry weather.
Fertilizing:
Porcupine Grass generally requires 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
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.
