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Public Plant Profile

Porcupine Maiden Grass

Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus' (Porcupine)

Category: Grass • Maiden Grass

Porcupine Maiden Grass is an ornamental grass with striking foliage and seed heads, perfect for borders and mass plantings.

Mature Height: 3-5 feet
Mature Width: 2-3 feet
Bloom Time: Late Summer to Fall
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 5-9
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Porcupine Maiden Grass is a striking ornamental grass known for its tall, upright growth and distinctive striped foliage. It adds texture and movement to gardens and landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade with moderate moisture. Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture levels. Adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenmass plantingborder

Special Features

Ornamental foliageattractive seed heads

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding texture and height to landscapes. Works well in naturalized settings or as a focal point.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Porcupine Maiden Grass may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Porcupine Maiden Grass a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.