Miscanthus sinensis
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is a large, clumping ornamental grass native to eastern Asia, featuring arching, narrow leaves with a silvery midrib and showy feathery plumes in late summer through autumn. It is one of the most widely cultivated ornamental grasses, with hundreds of cultivars available. Starting at $14.95.
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Plant maiden grass in full sun for best foliage density and flower production. In Northeast Florida's intense heat, even moisture helps prevent browning of leaf tips, but light shade is tolerated.
Water regularly until established, then maiden grass is quite drought tolerant. During extended dry periods, deep occasional watering prevents tip burn in NE-FL's sandy soils.
Adaptable to most well-drained soils — sandy, loam, or clay — with slight acidity preferred. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; cut the entire clump back to 4–6 inches before new growth emerges each spring.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Maiden Grass is a grass for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 4-8 feet × 3-6 feet.
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.