Ornamental grasses have become landscape favorites over the past decade. The appeal of these plants is not a passing trend. Demand might not be as strong, but many Miscanthus selections have gained a solid reputation for adding interest to gardens.

"The trend for ornamental grasses seems to have peaked for us about 3-4 years ago, but the demand has remained very stable since then," said Chad Walters, grass expert at Walters Gardens in Zeeland, Mich. "I think grasses will continue to gain in popularity as homeowners begin to realize the versatility and structure that grasses can add to a landscape. More new varieties down the road will also keep the demand strong." For now, there are still many Miscanthus options that will pique consumers' interest, including M. sinensis 'Little Zebra.' While similar in appearance to M. zebrinus with its distinctive gold banding, this variety is shorter, more upright and keeps its color all season.

Menagerie of color

'Little Zebra' reaches 3-4 feet high and 2-3 feet wide. Reddish-purple plumes appear 1 foot above the plant in late summer, changing to creamy tan in winter. Its compact growth makes for a good show in 1- or 2-gallon containers. In the landscape, 'Little Zebra' works well as a specimen, a screen or a marginal aquatic plant.

For homeowners, the plant is easy to grow and a good choice for beginning gardeners. It tolerates a range of soil conditions and does not require good drainage. 'Little Zebra' should generally be divided in spring or early summer to give it time to establish roots before winter. It should be divided in fall only in very mild climates.

Please feed the zebra

Growers should be aware that 'Little Zebra' is a heavy feeder. Walters has seen a decline in sales for this plant since it was introduced in 2002, which could be linked to iron-deficiency issues.

"It's a good grower, but in can be very susceptible to iron deficiency," Walters said. "If the plants are iron deficient, they turn very yellow in color. A drench application of iron sulphate can remedy the problem quite quickly."

Walters does not recommend trimming 'Little Zebra.'

"It has a nice, compact habit and should not need trimming," he said. "If the plants are trimmed, only the top third foliage should be removed."

Bare-root plants should be potted at the same level as the liner. Soil pH of 5.8-6.5 is ideal. Optimum growing temperature is 75°F days, 60°F nights. A 1-gallon plant will finish in six to nine weeks. Walters Gardens recommends watering sparingly until new growth appears. Pests and diseases are generally not a problem. However, a weekly fungicide application can help prevent foliar disease.

— Sarah Martinez

SPECIFICS:
Name: Miscanthus sinensis 'Little Zebra'
Family: Gramineae.
Description: Ornamental grass with distinctive gold banding. Reddish-purple plumes appear 1 foot above the plant in late summer, changing to creamy tan color in winter.
Hardiness: USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.
Uses: Can be used as a specimen, for massing or screening, or as a marginal aquatic plant.
For more: Walters Gardens, 1992 96th Ave., P.O. Box 137, Zeeland, MI 49464; (888) 925-8377; www.waltersgardens.com.

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© 2006 Branch-Smith Publishing