Miscanthus 'Dixieland'

Miscanthus sinensis 'Dixieland': Variegated Finesse with a Breezy Touch

Refined yet full of personality, Miscanthus 'Dixieland' brings bright variegation and gentle movement to sunny borders. Its green blades are crisply striped with creamy white, forming a tidy, upright clump that shimmers in the light and sways with every breeze. Shorter than many miscanthus cultivars, it fits beautifully into mid-sized plantings, offering a fountain of foliage that doesn’t overwhelm. Fluffy, silvery-pink plumes appear in late summer, adding height, texture, and seasonal elegance to the display.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 100–120 cm (foliage); up to 150 cm in flower
• Spread: 60–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Silvery-pink
• Flowering Period: Late summer to early fall
• Foliage: Narrow green blades with bold white variegation; upright, arching habit
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates drought once established

Uses and Benefits: 'Dixieland' is ideal for brightening sunny borders, adding both form and freshness with its striped foliage. Its compact size makes it versatile for smaller gardens or tight planting schemes, while its plumes provide soft contrast to bold-flowering perennials. Deer resistant, drought tolerant, and low maintenance, it’s a perfect grass for adding structure without bulk.

Companion Plants: Surround Miscanthus 'Dixieland' with Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' for large, rosy blooms and pollinator appeal. Add Coreopsis grandiflora 'Baby Sun' for golden daisies that echo the warm tones of late summer. Finish the trio with Liatris spicata 'Kobold', whose tidy purple spires offer contrast in both form and colour.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first season; once established, 'Dixieland' tolerates dry spells well. Cut back foliage in early spring before new shoots emerge. Divide clumps every few years to rejuvenate and maintain their tidy shape.

History: A variegated cultivar of Miscanthus sinensis, 'Dixieland' was selected for its compact size and clean striping. Its balanced proportions and easy-going nature make it a favourite in cottage-style gardens and more formal layouts alike.

Final Thoughts: Cheerful and controlled, Miscanthus 'Dixieland' adds movement, light, and late-season softness to sunny beds—an ornamental grass that blends the best of beauty and utility.