Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'

The early morning fog moved in and stayed with us for most of the day. Right outside the kitchen window the frost bitten copper colored flowering heads of Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light' continues to offer enjoyment in the winter garden.

We generally cut the grasses back around the end of February as we see the fresh new growth emerging. The very narrow green blade of grass has a tiny white band and appears to be silver when viewed from the distance. Its habit remains upright and arching at 4-5 feet in height throughout the year, and as fall approaches and the foliage begins to fade into bronze, the delicate reddish flowering plumes stretch upward and outward.

We love the ornamental grasses. . . practically maintenance free and they offer much interest and pleasure throughout the year.