Plants of Merit: Zebra grass

Published 11:00 am Thursday, September 30, 2010

What: Zebra grass is a large clumping perennial well known for its green leaves splashed with creamy yellow spots.

Its form weeps gently downward, creating a graceful focal point in the garden. In late summer or early fall, a silver-white plume is held above the plant.

Also known as miscanthus sinensis zebrinus, it makes a beautiful showing with other yellow-leafed shrubs or yellow-flowering plants.

To maintain its shape and vigor, remove old growth in early spring before the new leaves emerge.

Sun or shade: Its spots, which seem to glow in the sun, develop best when it is planted in full sun.

Size: It can reach 5 to 7 feet in one growing season.

See it: Find this plant just south of the Japanese maple grove at the Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett, www.evergreenarboretum.com.

Source: Sandra Schumacher, Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens