Images Depict Mature Plants
Little Zebra Grass
Miscanthus sinensis 'Little Zebra' Plant Patent #13008
Little Zebra Grass brings unique visual interest with its golden-striped foliage and airy plumes, making it perfect for adding texture and color to mixed borders or as a focal point in smaller landscapes. Its compact size and drought-tolerant nature make it an excellent choice for container gardening, mass plantings, and low-maintenance garden designs.
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Little Zebra Grass for Sale Online
Little Zebra Grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Little Zebra’) is a striking dwarf variety of zebra grass known for its bold foliage and compact size, making it perfect for smaller landscapes or container gardening. With its distinctive horizontal golden-yellow stripes across slender green blades, Little Zebra Grass adds a unique texture and vibrant color to any garden. In late summer, this ornamental grass produces airy, reddish-bronze plumes that rise above the foliage, creating a soft, billowing effect that lasts into fall. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates.
Growing to a mature size of about 3-4 feet tall and wide, Little Zebra Grass is ideal for use as a focal point in mixed borders, mass plantings, or even as an accent plant in smaller gardens. Its compact nature ensures that it fits well into tight spaces while still providing the same visual impact as larger ornamental grasses. Little Zebra Grass is also highly versatile and drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance addition to your landscape. This hardy grass grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, where it can develop its signature striped foliage and produce healthy, vibrant plumes.
In addition to its ornamental appeal, Little Zebra Grass is deer-resistant and easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and maintenance throughout the year. It is an excellent choice for adding movement and interest to your garden, especially during the fall and winter months when the dried plumes persist, offering seasonal interest. With its unique coloration, compact size, and adaptability, Little Zebra Grass is an attractive and practical option for gardeners seeking a distinctive ornamental grass that thrives in USDA Zones 5-9.
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 3 to 4 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 3 to 4 Feet |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun to Part Sun |
| Water Requirements: | Dry to Moist |
| Selling Points: | Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant, Deer Resistant, Fall Color |
How to Care for Little Zebra Grass
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Little Zebra Grass for years to come!
How Do I Plant Little Zebra Grass?
To plant Little Zebra Grass, start by selecting a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is about twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with the removed soil, gently pressing down to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle in. If planting multiple Little Zebra Grass plants, space them about 3-4 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow. When planting Little Zebra Grass in containers, choose a pot that is at least 18-24 inches in diameter and has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Use a high-quality potting mix, and position the plant where it will receive full sunlight for optimal growth. Once planted, mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but be careful not to cover the crown of the plant. Little Zebra Grass is a low-maintenance ornamental grass, but proper planting techniques ensure it establishes quickly and thrives in your landscape or garden.
How Do I Water Little Zebra Grass?
To properly water Little Zebra Grass, ensure it receives consistent moisture during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during hot or dry periods, so that the moisture reaches the root zone. It's important to allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. For established plants, Little Zebra Grass is drought-tolerant and only needs supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells or extreme heat. If you are growing Little Zebra Grass in containers, the soil tends to dry out faster, so you may need to water more frequently. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry. Make sure the container has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom, which can damage the roots. Whether in the garden or in pots, proper watering is essential to keeping your Little Zebra Grass healthy and ensuring its signature golden-striped foliage and beautiful plumes thrive throughout the growing season.
How Do I Fertilize Little Zebra Grass?
To fertilize Little Zebra Grass, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins to emerge. A 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formula is ideal, as it provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, making sure to avoid direct contact with the grass blades, and water the area thoroughly after applying to help the nutrients reach the root zone. One application of fertilizer in spring is typically sufficient for the growing season, as Little Zebra Grass is a low-maintenance ornamental grass that doesn't require heavy feeding. If you prefer an organic approach, you can incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil around your Little Zebra Grass in early spring. This will enrich the soil naturally and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can cause the plant to grow too rapidly, leading to weak, floppy growth. With proper fertilization, Little Zebra Grass will maintain its compact, upright form and produce its signature striped foliage and airy plumes, enhancing your landscape with texture and interest throughout the growing season.
How Do I Prune Little Zebra Grass?
To prune Little Zebra Grass, the best time to do so is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Using sharp garden shears or hedge clippers, cut the entire plant back to about 4-6 inches above the ground. This removes the old, dead foliage from the previous season, allowing room for fresh growth to emerge. Be sure to wear gloves when handling the grass, as the blades can be sharp. Pruning Little Zebra Grass annually helps maintain its tidy, compact shape and prevents the plant from looking overgrown or unruly. If you notice any damaged or unsightly foliage during the growing season, you can trim it back lightly to keep your Little Zebra Grass looking its best. However, major pruning should be reserved for late winter to avoid cutting into new growth. Pruning also encourages healthy growth and helps reduce the risk of pests and diseases hiding in the dense clumps of old foliage. By pruning Little Zebra Grass regularly, you’ll ensure that it continues to produce its striking golden-striped leaves and attractive plumes, making it a standout feature in your landscape or garden.
