Maiden Hair Grass

Variegatus is a deciduous, clump-forming maiden grass with narrow, arching green leaves edged in white. Pink flower plumes appear in late summer and fall, age to silvery tones, and persist into winter. Its foliage develops golden fall color before fading toward tan. An exact-cultivar UF/IFAS profile lists USDA zones 4–9 and describes 5–7 ft clumps; the RHS profile gives a 1.5–2.5 m mature height and 1–1.5 m spread, so size varies with growing conditions. [UF/IFAS cultivar profile](https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP410/pdf) [RHS cultivar profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/75716/miscanthus-sinensis-variegatus-v/details). Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil as a border, screen, container specimen, or mass planting. UF/IFAS notes that it can spread aggressively, so give the clump room and check local guidance before placing it near natural areas. ## Maintenance Leave stems and plumes for winter interest, then cut the grass back near ground level in spring before new growth. Divide clumps in spring if needed. Established plants have moderate drought tolerance, but water new plantings while they establish.