Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’

(Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass)

By February 27, 2024
Green grass shrub planted on hillside surrounded by yellow flowers. Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light', Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass.

About Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ (Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass)

This grass is known as Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’. Native to Japan, its variegated bladed foliage is green with white edging roughly 1/4 inches wide. Reaching a mature landscape size of 4-5′ tall by 4-5′ wide, it is also cold hardy to temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit.  Just as its common name describes, Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass, its foliage often looks silver during the tender morning sun light. During the spring, shoots of red-brown, feather-like flowers bloom reaching out above its foliage offering interest to an otherwise rounded form.

Care And Planting Instructions

Plant Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass in well-draining soil in an area that receives full sunlight exposure. Water regularly after planting to help it adapt well to its new location. Before new growth arrives in the spring, cut back its foliage to encourage robust growth for the arriving spring season.

Landscape Design Ideas

This variety fits nicely in rock, cottage or contemporary landscape designs. Its large in size but soft, feather-like ook would make it well placed if planted as a border to a patch of lawn or a border of any kind. It would make a great cover to an unsightly fence while offering interest as a backdrop for colorful perennials.


Botanical Name: Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'

Common Name: Morning Light Japanese Silver Grass

Average Landscape Size: 4-5' x 4-5'

Plant Type: Evergreen

Bloom Color: Red-brown

Foliage Color: Variegated green

Forms: Shrubs

Sizes: 1 & 5 gallon

Special Features: Good For Mass Plantings, Low Maintenance, Ornamental Plant, Showy Spring Flowers,