Zebra Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus') is a bold ornamental grass known for its distinctive horizontally banded foliage and tall, graceful habit. Growing approximately 5-7 feet tall, with flower plumes extending even higher, it produces arching green leaves marked with irregular golden-yellow horizontal bands. The striped foliage provides excellent color and texture throughout the growing season, even before the plant begins to flower.
In late summer to early fall, feathery reddish to copper-colored flower plumes emerge above the foliage and gradually mature to a soft silvery-tan. Its larger size makes Zebra Grass 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 in the landscape.
More About Zebra Grass
- Low Maintenance
- Moderate to Fast Growing
- Perennial Ornamental Grass
- Distinctive Horizontal Yellow Bands
- Screening, Mixed Border, Mass Planting, Accent, Specimen
- Tall, Upright, Arching Habit
- Showy Late-Season Flower Plumes
- Provides Winter Texture and Structure
- Deer Resistant
Height: 5-7 Feet, Taller When in Bloom
Spread: 4-6 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, Arching, Variegated
- Foliage Color: Green with Horizontal Golden-Yellow Bands
- Flower Color: Reddish to Copper, Maturing to Silvery-Tan
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun for the strongest growth, best foliage coloration, and most reliable flowering. Zebra Grass can tolerate some light shade, but too much shade may result in weaker growth, reduced 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, Zebra Grass can tolerate occasional dry periods, although supplemental watering during extended hot or dry weather will help maintain healthy growth.
Fertilizing:
Zebra 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: 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.
