Miscanthus sinensis

zebragrassfull
(Photo by Walter Sablack)

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Taxonomy (1)

Classification: Angiosperm, monocot
Family: Poaceae
Common name: Zebra Grass 
Varieties: Zebrinus

General Information (1,2)

Region of Origin: Eastern China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan
USDA Plants Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Growth Habit: Herb

  • Size: 5-8 feet
  • Deciduous/Evergreen: Deciduous
  • Flowering: Late summer to early fall

Diagnostic Characteristics

Leaves (2)

  • Arrangement: Alternate
  • Simple/Compound: Simple
  • Shape: Lanceolate
  • Other: Dark green with golden stripes, serrate

zebragrassleaf
(Photo by Walter Sablack)

Flower (1,2)

  • Color: Pink-tinged to silver-white
  • Size: 2 feet

zebragrassflower
(Photo by Walter Sablack)

Horticultural Information (1)

  • Light: Full to part sun
  • Soil type: Sand, clay
  • pH: 5.5-8
  • Maintenance: Easy to care for
  • Landscape Uses: Ornamental, accent, border, screen

Interesting Facts (2)

  • Potentially invasive

References

1) Missouri Botanical Garden. (2013). Retrieved April 1, 2013, from: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/plant-finder/plant-details/kc/u940/miscanthus-sinensis-zebrinus.aspx
2) University of Florida IFAS , Extensions (2012).  EDIS. Retrieved April 1, 2013, from: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp411

Prepared by Walter Sablack as a course requirement for BIOL 3630/5630, Spring 2013
Edited by Jessica Bartek