Flame Grass
Flame Grass, known scientifically as Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens', is a type of ornamental grass native to East Asia. It features an upright habit with an arching inflorescence, typically reaching heights of about 5 feet. Its foliage consists of slender, arching leaves that are 2 to 4 feet long and a quarter inch wide. In late summer to early fall, it produces tall, branched stems which bear feathery, mauve-hued panicles that emit a spicy aroma. Along with its striking foliage and delicate blossoms, it also brings four-season interest to any garden due to its late season seed heads that last all winter.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' likes to stay moist during the growing season. It is drought tolerant, so during drier periods, water only when the soil is completely dry. Generally, watering this grass once every one or two weeks in the summer season is enough to keep it appropriately hydrated.
Flame Grass prefers full sun, however that can be too harsh in hot climates. In mild winter areas, full sun is preferred, while in hot summer areas, light shade is best. Light shade in the form of overhead shade cloth or dappled shade from trees can help to protect the leaves from drying out or burning in the intense UV light.
Flame Grass likes temperatures between 75-85F (24-30C) in the summer and thrives better in cooler winters with temperatures between 30-50F (-1-10C). It is not winter hardy, so it is essential to provide extra insulation for the roots if the temperatures dip below 25F (-4C).
Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' can tolerate various levels of humidity. In hotter summers or in humid climates, it needs a bit more moisture from occasional misting or from damp shade cloth to stay in optimal condition. Otherwise, it is mostly unaffected by the amount of humidity or lack thereof in the atmosphere.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' requires soil that can retain moisture in order to thrive. It should be a well-drained, organically rich loam with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. Amend the soil with bark, compost or peat to maintain moisture levels without becoming soggy.
Flame Grass should not be fertilized until it is planted in its desired location in the garden. When it is, a slow-release 12-4-8 fertilizer should be used at a rate of one pound per 100 square feet of turf, or as per the directions of the specific brand. After the grass is established, feeding can be done monthly from April to August (no more than once a month in areas with warm summers), if desired. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can posses a risk of causing leaf burn or even the death of your grass.
Flame Grass is relatively resistant to most pests and disease, however there is a number of potential root or stem issues that can impact it. Common issues include scale insects, crown rot, root rot, or caterpillars. If pests or disease are present, it is best to treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap when it is actively growing. Other methods of infestation prevention and removal include hand picking caterpillars or other pests, and raising the water levels of the soil to get rid of root rot.
Repotting this ornamental grass is usually not necessary as it can tolerate being kept in its original container for long periods of time, especially if the yearly growth is minimal. However, if needed or desired, Flame Grass can be repotted in late winter or spring when new growth begins. A pot size at least twice the size of the original container should be used with specialized soil specifically made for ornamental grasses.
Prune Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' once or twice in the late winter or early spring, cutting all the old foliage and stems down to the ground. Afterwards, it can be further pruned to maintain a desired size and shape, removing any affected plants when needed and shape the canopy as desired.
Mulching can be beneficial in terms of aesthetics and moisture retention for Flame Grass. A layer of mulch should be applied in the spring to a depth of about 2 inches around the base. It should be kept away from the crown of the plant, as too much mulch can cause the crown to rot.
Propagating Miscanthus sinensis 'Purpurascens' is relatively easy, but is best done in the spring season. Division is the most popular way to propagate this grass, which can be done by slicing through the root mass with a sharp spade or shovel and then repotting the sections. Another more hands-on approach involves plucking individual spikelets from the panicles in between the thumb and forefinger, and planting them in pots. They should be kept moist but not overly wet and find their way out of the soil in approximately five to six weeks.
Flame Grass is sturdy enough to stand by itself without being staked. In windy climates, however, extra support may be necessary to prevent it from flopping over.
Flame Grass typically stops growing and goes dormant during the late winter or early spring months. There should be no pruning during this period and additional water may not be needed as the root system will still obtain moisture from the existing soil. It usually wakes up again around early summer time.
Flame Grass is not toxic to pets and can be safely grown around them.
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