Cabaret Japanese Silver Grass

Cabaret Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Cabaret')

Cabaret Japanese Silver Grass is a bold ornamental grass with broad blades showcasing bright white centers and rich green margins, forming an upright fountain that tops with feathery plumes in late summer to fall. Its striking variegation and strong vertical presence light up borders, islands, and screens.

Distinctive Features

Wide, high-contrast variegation reads clearly from a distance, while rosy to silvery plumes add movement and seasonal interest. Clump-forming habit offers structure without running.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best color and plumes; tolerates very light afternoon shade.
• Soil: Average, well drained soil; adaptable to loam, sandy, or clay with drainage.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist the first season, then water during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 5 to 7 ft tall with plumes and 3 to 5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright variegation and tall plumes create a standout accent in sunny beds.
• Screening: Dense foliage forms seasonal privacy and wind filtration.
• Mixed Borders: Adds height, texture, and fall interest among perennials and shrubs.
• Coastal Gardens: Tolerates wind and salt spray with good drainage.
• Mass Plantings: Repeats color and movement along drives and property lines.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak in dry periods to maintain vigor and plume production.
• Pruning: Cut clumps back to 6 to 8 inches in late winter before new growth emerges.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring if soils are poor; excessive nitrogen can flop stems.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 inch mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch off crowns.
• Notes: Clump-forming, not running; in regions with self-seeding concerns, remove spent plumes before seed matures.

Why Choose Cabaret Japanese Silver Grass?

• High-Impact Variegation: Bold white centers and green margins brighten plantings.
• Seasonal Drama: Showy plumes and autumn texture extend interest.
• Reliable Structure: Strong, upright clumps hold form through the season.
• Low Upkeep: Simple annual cutback and occasional watering.
• Design Versatility: Works as specimen, screen, or repeated drift.

Plant in full sun with well drained soil, water regularly the first season, and cut back in late winter to keep clumps fresh and plumes plentiful.