Miscanthus 'Adagio'

Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio': Grace in Motion, Season to Season

Compact, airy, and always elegant, Miscanthus 'Adagio' brings four-season texture and movement to the garden. Fine, silver-green blades form a dense, upright fountain that sways in the breeze, topped in late summer by feathery plumes that emerge pink-tinged and mature to silvery white. The foliage takes on warm gold tones in autumn, adding a final burst of colour before standing tall through winter. Smaller than many ornamental grasses, it's perfectly sized for mixed borders and tighter spaces without sacrificing presence.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–120 cm (foliage); 150 cm in flower
• Spread: 60–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Silvery-pink maturing to white
• Flowering Period: Late summer to fall
• Foliage: Narrow, arching silver-green blades; golden tones in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates dry conditions once established

Uses and Benefits: A standout in perennial borders, meadows, or as a specimen in modern plantings, 'Adagio' offers structure and softness in equal measure. It blends seamlessly with bold blooms and late-season perennials, creating dynamic contrast and gentle movement. This deer-resistant grass is a low-maintenance favourite for adding height, texture, and a long season of visual interest.

Companion Plants: Combine Miscanthus 'Adagio' with Echinacea 'Ruby Star' for bold magenta blooms that echo the grass’s plume tones. Introduce Achillea millefolium 'Paprika' for its rich red flowers and ferny foliage. Add vertical rhythm and deep contrast with Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna', whose spires of violet-blue energize the midsummer palette.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first season; established plants tolerate heat and occasional drought. Leave seed heads and foliage intact for winter interest, then cut back close to the ground in early spring before new growth appears. Divide every few years in spring to rejuvenate and control clump size.

History: A selection of Miscanthus sinensis, native to East Asia, 'Adagio' was bred for its refined size, silvery plumes, and strong upright form. Its adaptability and tidy habit have made it a staple in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Final Thoughts: With refined proportions and graceful plumes, Miscanthus 'Adagio' dances through the seasons—bringing movement, contrast, and enduring elegance to any sunlit garden.