Miscanthus is the most common of the large ornamental grasses grown in California gardens. They can reach 8′ or more tall.

They have beautiful feathery flower spikes that last into the winter. They are drought tolerant and deer resistant. The top photo was taken in March before they are cut back. The video was shot in September.

The following video shows how to clean up Miscanthus plants in December or January so they will look good for another month before you cut them back completely.

I like to do this so there are some flowers visible while there are some Daffodils blooming at the same time in March.

MISCANTHUS SINENSIS CULTIVARS:

Miscanthus ‘Yaku Jima’ is a smaller variety.

Miscanthus sinensis purpurascens ‘Autumn Red’

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Cosmopolitan’

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gold Band’

Evergreen Miscanthus (Miscanthus transmorsoniensis)

The Miscanthus on the right is a seedling that has sprouted as a weed from the Miscanthus on the left. The one on the right should be removed or it will make more weeds and ruin the character of the garden. Any Miscanthus can reseed and make weeds so the gardener must be aware of this and control their population.