Miscanthus s. ‘Strictus’ (30)ct Flat

Description

Product Description

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’ (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Porcupine Grass, Miscanthus

Distinctive yellowish-white, horizontal banding on the leaves of this cultivar distinguish it from nearly all other grasses. These irregularly spaced marks seem to glow when backlit by the early morning or late afternoon sun. ‘Porcupine Grass’ is an upright, stiff grass whose leaves stretch skyward like porcupine spines, thus the name.

This is nearly identical to M. ‘Zebrinus’, differing primarily in form. ‘Porcupine Grass’ is an upright, stiff whose leaves stretch skyward instead of arching downward like those of M. ‘Zebrinus’.

This requires a very long, hot growing season to be able to produce flowers. When it does, they are spectacular pinkish copper plumes that appear in early fall. As the seeds mature, they become fluffy, and are a great accent to the reddish-tan winter foliage.

Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit 2001

Not available for shipment to NY

Height: 4.0-6.0 FeetSpread: 4.0-6.0 FeetHardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9Flower Color: Purple-red shadesFoliage Color: VariegatedFull Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) – Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)Average to Consistent Water NeedsPoor to Average Soil QualityBloomtime: Early FallDeer ResistantSeasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall ColorGrowth Rate: Medium

Border Plant, Container, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant, Specimen, Focal Point

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’, commonly called Porcupine Grass, is a striking ornamental grass known for its upright, columnar form and horizontally banded foliage. It adds a bold architectural element to gardens and provides excellent texture and movement. Here is a closer look at its key features:

Appearance:

• Upright, Columnar Habit: ‘Strictus’ has a distinctive upright growth habit, with stiffly erect stems that resemble porcupine quills. This gives it a formal and architectural presence in the landscape.
• Horizontally Banded Foliage: The medium green leaves are adorned with striking horizontal yellow bands, creating a unique and eye-catching pattern.
• Reddish-Bronze Plumes: In late summer, it produces reddish-bronze flowers in tassel-like inflorescences that rise above the foliage. These gradually mature into silvery plumes in fall, adding another layer of interest.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for the best color development and flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but the variegation and fall color may be less intense.
• Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, from well-drained sandy soils to heavy clays.
• Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making it a versatile choice for many gardeners.

Care:

• Low Maintenance: ‘Strictus’ is a relatively low-maintenance grass.
• Cutting Back: Cut back the foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Uses:

• Specimen Plant: Its upright, architectural form makes it an excellent specimen plant, adding a focal point to the landscape.
• Screens and Hedges: Can be used to create a screen or hedge for privacy.
• Borders: Adds height, texture, and a vertical element to borders and beds.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a dramatic effect when planted in groups.
• Erosion Control: The strong root system helps to control erosion on slopes and banks.

Additional Information:

• Winter Interest: The foliage and flower plumes persist well into winter, providing visual interest even in the dormant season.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Deer and rabbits tend to avoid Miscanthus.
• Attracts Wildlife: The seed heads provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
• Similar Cultivar: ‘Strictus’ is similar in appearance to Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’, but ‘Strictus’ has a more upright habit and does not tend to flop as much.

If you are looking for an ornamental grass with a bold, architectural presence, striking variegated foliage, and a low-maintenance nature, Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’ is an excellent choice. It is a versatile plant that will add drama and texture to any sunny garden.

Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 4.25 inches deep x 2 inches wide.

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