Himalayan fairy grass (Miscanthus nepalensis)

Photo: Ewen Cameron, CC BY 4.0 · source

Pruning guide · Ornamental grass

Himalayan fairy grass: when and how to prune

Miscanthus nepalensis

Himalayan fairy grass is best pruned in March–April.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch–April
FloweringAugust–October
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Himalayan fairy grass: when to prune it?

In March–April, once the hard frosts are over and before the new shoots appear.

What else to prune in those months? March · April

Himalayan fairy grass: how to prune it?

  1. First tie the old foliage loosely with string.
  2. Cut the clump back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
  3. Wear gloves: the leaf edges are sharp.
  4. Compost the clippings.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March–April.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • If you only cut back in March–April, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.

Caution: Do not cut back in autumn: the old foliage protects the crown from damp and frost.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Himalayan fairy grass · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…