Zebra Grass

Botanical Name: Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’

Common Name: Zebra Grass

Mature Height and Width:
4–6' tall × 4–5' wide (foliage)
6–8' tall in bloom

Growth Habit: Bold, upright clump-forming ornamental grass with arching upper blades and a strong vertical presence. Forms a dense base with a slightly flaring, vase-shaped silhouette. Moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Broad green blades distinctly banded with irregular horizontal yellow striping across the leaf surface. Variegation appears uneven and naturally spaced along each blade. Foliage is coarse-textured and architectural.

Flower Description: Soft coppery-pink plumes in late summer that mature to tan. Plumes rise above the foliage and gradually lighten as they age.

Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall

Fall Color: Foliage transitions to golden-tan; plumes persist into winter.

Light Requirements: Full sun for best striping intensity and strongest vertical habit.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 5–9

Notable Landscape Uses:
Specimen grass in open lawn; driveway island beds; privacy screens; mixed perennial borders; bold architectural accent in modern landscapes; fall structure and seasonal interest; mass plantings.

Deer Resistance: High
Miscanthus species are generally not preferred by deer. Established Zebra Grass clumps typically experience minimal browsing in Zones 5–7.