ZEBRA GRASS Miscanthus sinensis 'zebrinus'
These grasses are clumping, and have stripes of white on the leaves, like a zebra! These seeds are from the plants in our gardens. We're actually not sure if they will come true, and if the seedlings will show the same variegated coloration as the parent plants. We decided to list them anyways in case anyone is interested in trying to grow them!
Type: Perennial
Height: 4-5', 48-60"
Location: Sun or part
Hardiness zones: 4-9
Seeds per pack: 20
Germination: As with many perennials, these seeds can benefit from a period of moist cold to help them break dormancy. The cold period is especially important for Miscanthus, as they can require patience to germinate. The cold period provides a 'winter' period (artificial or natural), and then a warming to simulate 'spring', and time to grow! Here's how this can be done:
Obtain a planting container that has holes in the bottom for excess water to drain. Place the seeds on the surface of your growing medium, and water in so that seeds just barely under the soil surface. Place your container in a cold area (but not freezing, perhaps a refrigerator) for 5-6 weeks. If temperatures are naturally cool outside at the time of planting, the container can be placed outdoors for this cold period, as the seeds like the alternating temperatures. Be sure the temperatures do not go below freezing.
Once the cold period is completed, place the container at room temperature for them to germinate. Your seedlings should appear anywhere from 3-10 weeks after bringing them into warmth. It is very important to keep the soil moist during this entire germination period.
