Maiden Grass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Gold Bar'

Miscanthus sinensis 'Gold Bar'

Maiden grass is a Southern garden favorite. This ornamental grass grows in clumps that can reach three to ten feet tall and two to six feet wide. It can be planted en masse, in mixed borders, or as a vertical accent in containers. It's also sold under its scientific name, Miscanthus. Its graceful foliage can be solid or variegated, and cultivars like 'Purpurascens' will turn red or orange in fall.

Maiden grass produces eye-catching seedheads each summer or fall that stay on the plant through winter. The silvery tassels are breathtaking when they're backlit by the afternoon sun.

Each spring, cut maiden grass to the ground in order to encourage new growth. And propagate maiden grass by division in early spring.

Also on Gardening Solutions

More from UF/IFAS