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Return to the Ornamental Grasses Forum | Post a Follow-Up

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zebra vs porcupine grass

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Posted by akhkansas 5b-6a (My Page) on
Sun, Apr 26, 09 at 12:08

I've heard zebra grass has a tendency to flop over (especially in the rain)while porcupine grass will stand erect. Is this true? Do you recommend one over the other and if so why? I'm trying to decide which one to plant. I live in zone 6. Thanks

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RE: zebra vs porcupine grass

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  • Posted by donn_ 7a, GSB, LI, NY (My Page) on
    Sun, Apr 26, 09 at 19:13

I'll chime in here, even though I have not grown either of these grasses. I do have direct experience with several other Miscanthus varieties, as well as other similar warm season grasses, so I think I can help.

Pick the one you like the look of. Neither of them will be more prone to flopping IF you give them a suitable environment. That means good drainage, not-too-fertile soil, and plenty of sun (6-8 hours a day).

They do have somewhat different habits, and each has a different look. Compare them on this chart:

http://www.bluestem.ca/grass-comparison-chart.htm

By the way...there are some newer varieties, like 'Gold Bar,' which offer the horizontal striping, with different habits and growth rates.

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RE: zebra vs porcupine grass

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I'd agree with donn that flopping is not a big problem if grown in the right conditions. However, I would say that Miscanthus Zebrinus (zebra grass) will be more at risk to floppy-ness ?:) than Miscanthus Strictus (porcupine grass). Zebrinus grows more arching to begin with, while Strictus has a very upright habit. I prefer Strictus myself...it does hold form better in my opinion.

Here is a link that might be useful: Miscanthus Strictus

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RE: zebra vs porcupine grass

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Thanks for the information. I also read that porcupine grass is extremely slow growing, i.e. eight years to reach maximum height. Does this sound accurate to you?

Thanks again!!

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RE: zebra vs porcupine grass

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No, I don't find Miscanthus 'Strictus' to be a slow grower. 'Gold Bar' (which is basically a compact Strictus), however, is extremely slow. That's ok, it suits it's usefulness as a compact gold striped miscanthus.

  
 

 

 


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