Miscanthus sinensis Ferner Osten

Description

Quick Facts

Botanical Name: Miscanthus sinensis ‘Ferner Osten’
Common Name: Maiden Grass
Plant Type: Ornamental grass
Mature Height: 1.6m–1.8m
Mature Spread: Not specified
Flowering Period: Late summer to autumn
Flower Colour: Initially dark red flowerheads
Foliage Colour: Narrow green foliage turning shades of copper, orange and red in autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil Requirements: Most soils, except wet ground
Aspect: Sunny open spot
Maintenance: Low

Description

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Ferner Osten’ is a superb large ornamental grass, forming beautiful mounds of narrow foliage that take on rich shades of copper, orange and red as autumn arrives. In late summer, it produces striking dark red flowerheads that add movement, texture and drama to the border.

Best planted in a sunny open spot, this graceful grass is ideal for giving height and seasonal interest to the garden. It’s a wonderful choice for mixed planting schemes, where its changing colour and elegant habit can bring warmth and structure right through the year.

Caragh Garden Notebook

Planting:
Plant in spring or autumn in well-prepared soil. It prefers a sunny, open position and will establish well in most soils, provided they are not overly wet.

Watering:
Water regularly after planting until established. Once settled, it is fairly low maintenance and tolerant of drier conditions.

Feeding:
A spring mulch of compost is usually enough to support healthy growth.

Seasonal Care & Tidy-Up:
Leave the plant standing through winter for structure and movement, then cut back old growth in late winter or early spring before new shoots appear.

Pests & Problems:
Generally trouble-free and reliable, especially when grown in a suitable sunny position with good drainage.

Design Notes:
Beautiful as a focal point in borders, prairie-style planting and larger garden schemes. It works well with perennials and late-season planting, adding softness, height and rich autumn colour.