Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ – A Delicate, Elegant Grass with Fine Foliage and Feather-like Plumes
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’, commonly known as Graceful Maiden Grass, is an ornamental grass prized for its fine-textured, arching foliage and stunning, feathery plumes. Known for its elegant, slender form, this variety typically grows to a height of 1.5 to 2 metres (5 to 6 feet), making it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to borders, mixed plantings, or containers. The narrow, silvery-green leaves sway gently in the wind, creating a soft, flowing effect that brings a sense of movement to the garden. In late summer and autumn, it produces airy, silvery flower plumes that rise above the foliage, turning to golden hues as they mature, providing beautiful seasonal interest.
Why Grow Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’?
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Fine, Slender Foliage – The narrow, arching leaves of ‘Gracillimus’ provide a soft, flowing texture that adds elegance and lightness to the garden. The fine, silvery-green foliage creates a striking contrast against other plants, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the landscape.
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Feathery Flower Plumes – In late summer, ‘Gracillimus’ produces delicate, silvery plumes that rise above the foliage, creating a cloud-like effect. These plumes turn golden-brown in autumn, extending the plant's visual interest through the cooler months.
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Compact Size – Growing to a height of 1.5 to 2 metres, ‘Gracillimus’ is a more compact variety of Miscanthus, making it perfect for smaller gardens, borders, or as a focal point in a mixed planting. Its graceful form adds vertical interest without overwhelming the space.
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Seasonal Interest – From its lush green foliage in the warmer months to its stunning flower plumes in late summer and golden hues in autumn, ‘Gracillimus’ provides beauty and texture throughout the growing season, creating a dynamic and ever-changing element in the garden.
Planting & Care Guide
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Position: Miscanthus ‘Gracillimus’ thrives in full sun but can tolerate some light shade. Plant it in a sunny spot where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure the best growth and flowering. It is also tolerant of wind and can be planted in exposed or coastal gardens.
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Soil: This grass is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. ‘Gracillimus’ prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil but can tolerate a range of pH levels. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot.
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Watering: Water regularly during the first year after planting to establish a strong root system. Once established, ‘Gracillimus’ is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering, though consistent moisture will help encourage better growth and a more impressive flowering display. Water deeply during dry spells.
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Maintenance:
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Pruning: Prune back the foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cutting back the plant to around 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) from the ground will help maintain a tidy appearance and encourage fresh growth in the spring.
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Dividing: Every few years, divide Miscanthus ‘Gracillimus’ to prevent overcrowding and encourage vigorous growth. Dig up the plant in early spring or late autumn, separate the clumps, and replant them in fresh soil.
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Fertilising: Miscanthus does not require heavy fertilisation but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertiliser in early spring. Avoid excessive fertilisation, as this can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and plumes.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of plants, from bold perennials to other ornamental grasses. Its fine texture and soft, silvery-green leaves complement plants with more robust forms and bright colours. Pair it with late-blooming perennials such as Echinacea, Asters, or Rudbeckia, where the airy plumes of ‘Gracillimus’ contrast beautifully with the vibrant, daisy-like flowers.
In a more relaxed or naturalistic setting, combine it with other ornamental grasses such as Panicum or Calamagrostis, creating a flowing, textured display. It also pairs well with shrubs like Spirea, Weigela, or low-growing groundcovers like Heuchera, which provide a contrast in form and colour, allowing the delicate grass to stand out.
For a more striking effect, plant ‘Gracillimus’ alongside plants with dark foliage, such as dark-leaved Heuchera or Black-tipped New Zealand Flax (Phormium), to create a dynamic contrast with the lighter, silvery-green tones of the grass. The feathery plumes will stand out even more against darker plants, adding drama and texture to the garden.
Whether used as a specimen plant, a backdrop in a mixed border, or a striking addition to a container garden, Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ will bring elegance, movement, and year-round interest to your garden with its fine foliage, airy plumes, and seasonal colour changes.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
