Miscanthus 'Gracillimus'

Known as maiden grass, Miscanthus 'Gracillimus' is a proud and quite stately plant when mature and in flower. At its highest it will be around 120-180cm in height, with a spread of just a little less. A beautiful deciduous grass, it has fine, narrow, arching leaves with distinctive white midribs down the centre. After the first frosts of autumn, these leaves turn an attractive yellow colour, before fading to straw-beige by winter.  

In terms of its flowers, these come late, so will help to extend the season of interest in a mixed border, well into autumn and, if left, throughout winter. Individually, from late summer, the numerous flowers of Miscanthus 'Gracillimus' are small but striking: silky, purple-tinged, and curled, hanging like tassels. These gradually turn into silvery white plumes as the seedheads mature. These seedheads make a useful addition to flower arrangements. 

Ideal for the front or mid-way point in a sunny bed or border, Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' is relatively compact. Therefore, despite its mature size, it is ideal for larger patio pots, too.