What: Miscanthus sinensis “Gold Bar” sets the new standard for golden variegated ornamental grasses. This show-stopper has a multitude of dramatic gold stripes that cut across the grass blades. Exceptionally upright and compact, mature plants only reach 4 to 5 feet in height. Often in the Northwest, seed heads are not produced, but in warm locations in mid-fall, burgundy inflorescences appear above the foliage. “Gold Bar” matures slowly, making it great for use in containers, the mixed border and as a single specimen or small grouping in urban gardens. This beautiful variegated grass is easy to grow and a handsome addition to the garden. The fine texture and brightly colored foliage provide excellent contrast. Combine with spring-flowering bulbs to provide interest until the new blades emerge. The cool tones of late summer asters and purple coneflowers find warmth in the yellow glow of this grass. Autumnal tones, in saturated reds and burgundies, resonate with the colorful seed heads late in the season.
Where: This adaptable grass easily grows in full sun with moist to well-drained soils. It will tolerate sand and clay, but in sandy sites regular summer watering may be necessary to keep this perennial from withering. Plants in other soil conditions only need occasional watering during dry weather.
Size: The slow-growing grass reaches 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide when mature.
Care: Avoid excessive fertilizing and shade or the plant can become floppy in late summer. Allow to stand into the fall as long as the grass looks good, once it is not longer attractive cut to the ground.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks
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