Features

• The plant is comprised of grass stalks that are .75 to 1 inch in width. Dwarf varieties have stalks that reach 3 feet in height, regular varieties average 4 to 8 feet in height, and giant varieties can grow 10 to 15 feet. The stalks are grouped together to form a clump that averages 1 to 3 feet in width. Grass stalks range from yellowish-green, to light-green, to green in color, except for white to yellow horizontal bands that run the length of the stalk. These gold bands are the source of the designation "gold." The plant does produce flowers, which are described as inflorescences, or a cluster of elongated white to silvery cylindrical extensions, 1/10 of an inch or less in width. These flowers grow on the grass tips. The plant does produce fruit, which comes in the form of grain-like seeds located within the flower.
  
  

Climate

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture prescribes hardiness zones 4 through 9 for the Miscanthus sinensis.These zones correspond to most of North America, including the western and southern coastal regions of Alaska, but excludes the northern sections of Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana and Wisconsin. These zones represent climates in which the temperature does not drop below -40 Fahrenheit.
  
  

Habitat

• The wide variety of climates that Miscanthus sinensis can survive in is shown by its durability in regards to habitat. The plant can grow in full sun (southern states) to partial shade (mid to northern states). The plant can survive in moist to dry soils. But the soil must promote water drainage. Without proper drainage, the plant will become over-watered, signaled by standing water surrounding the plant.
  
  

Positive Aspects

• The Miscanthus sinensis is not threatened by serious pest infestations or disease infections. The sinensis species can survive through winter and, because of this, is a popular garden selection.
  
  

Negative Aspects

• All species within the Miscanthus genus spread aggressively and rapidly. Because of this, they can be considered invasive. Invasive plant species intrude on the growth areas of other plants, potentially robbing them of nutrients. The invasive status depends on the area in which the grass lives--if the conditions are ideal for rapid growth--so a local nursery should be consulted prior to planting any species.
  
  

Considerations

• Cultivated Miscanthus sinensis does require upkeep: dead or loose stalks and flower heads should be removed to promote future growth.