Also known as Giant Miscanthus · Giant Silver-Grass · Small East Asian Silvergrass
Riesen Chinaschilf (Miscanthus × longiberbis) is a large, ornamental grass forming dense clumps of erect, arching foliage with feathery plumes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best performance and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially when young or during drought.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures but is also very cold-hardy once established.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring; over-fertilizing can cause issues.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry spells. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Once established, Miscanthus x longiberbis is fairly drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.
Cut back all dried foliage to about 10-15 cm above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This removes dead material and prepares the plant for vigorous new growth.
Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp leaf edges.
Propagate by division in early spring. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and shoots. Replant divisions immediately and water thoroughly.
Seeds can be sown in spring but may not come true to type.
Repotting is generally not necessary for this large grass, as it is usually planted in the ground. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot.
Ensure good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Identify plants like this with ePlant
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Riesen Chinaschilf (Miscanthus × longiberbis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Liliopsida |
| order | Poales |
| family | Poaceae |
| genus | Miscanthus |
| species | Miscanthus × longiberbis |
6 related species from the encyclopedia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
