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Creeping miscanthus

Quick facts

Creeping miscanthus, previously called Amur silver grass, is an invasive species. 

Creeping miscanthus should be reported. See the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommendations for reporting invasive species.

Creeping miscanthus invades sunny to semi-shaded areas such as roadsides, woodland borders and clearings. It forms single-species stands and should be monitored and eliminated in open landscapes.

How to identify creeping miscanthus

  • Creeping miscanthus (Miscanthus sacchariflorus) is a perennial warm-season grass.
  • 6–8 feet tall.
  • Very showy and vigorous, forming dense mats.

Leaves

  • Arching, with distinct whitish midrib, less than 1 inch wide.

Flowers

Creeping miscanthus silky plume-like flowers
  • Silky plume-like flowers bloom in the fall.
  • It resembles corn tassels but is denser and arched to one side of the stalk.

Roots

  • Reproduces vegetatively through rhizomes.
  • Eventually, it forms a dense mat.
  • It spreads more easily in moist areas than in dry areas.

Authors: Angela Gupta, Amy Rager, and Megan M. Weber, Extension educators

Reviewed in 2024

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