Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio'
Adagio Maiden Grass
- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 4–5 feet
- Width
- 3–4 feet
- Flower color
- Pink-tinged flowers that mature to white
- Foliage color
- Green with a soft, graceful arch
- Bloom time
- Late summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Prune to 4–6 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds; deer-resistant
About this plant
Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio' is a compact, ornamental grass known for its graceful, arching foliage and elegant flower plumes. This cultivar features narrow, green leaves that take on a soft, golden hue in the fall, adding seasonal interest to the garden. In late summer to early fall, the plant produces feathery, silvery-pink flower panicles that rise above the foliage, creating a beautiful contrast. These airy flower heads persist into winter, providing visual appeal even after the growing season ends.
'Adagio' thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, where it can reach a height that is smaller than many other Miscanthus varieties, making it ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal care throughout the growing season. Its dense, upright habit and late-season flowers make it a versatile addition to gardens, offering texture, movement, and seasonal interest.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Bird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the Oregon trial Garden at Monrovia.
