Miscanthus sinensis 'Cosmopolitan' (Maiden Grass)

Cosmopolitan Maiden Grass features bold plumes of coppery-bronze flowers rising above the foliage in early fall. Its attractive grassy leaves are green in colour with showy white variegation. The foliage often turns tan in fall. The white seed heads are carried on showy plumes displayed in abundance from early fall to late winter.

Cosmopolitan Maiden Grass will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. It tends to be leggy, with a typical clearance of 1 foot from the ground, and should be underplanted with lower-growing perennials. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years.

This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America. It can be propagated by division; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. It has no significant negative characteristics.