Do you have any information on this type of tall grass?
Will it grow in Toronto?
Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners. Miscanthus species are native to Asia. Miscanthus x giganteus is a hybrid of Miscanthus sinensis and Miscanthus sacchariflorus that produces sterile seed. It can grow up to 12 feet in height, spreads via underground rhizomes and prefers moist soil. It is hardy to zone 5, so it will grow in Toronto and survive our winters. It is being researched for applications in agriculture, bioenergy production, soil remediation, and carbon sequestration.
It is important to note that many species of Miscanthus have been identified as invasive in North America. While Miscanthus x giganteus is not currently considered invasive, it is impossible to rule out potential invasiveness with further development and breeding of this hybrid that may, in the future, produce plants with viable seed. We have developed an invasive plant fact sheet for Miscanthus spp. which provides some alternative grasses, should you wish to consider them.
April 28, 2024