The wild variant is a native to China, Japan and Korea but the species, under numerous varietal names, is widely cultivated as an ornamental.
Cultivated ornamental (Japanese Silver-grass), represented in Egypt by var. zebrinus Beal which has alternating horizontal bands of green and yellowish white on the leaves.
Perennial.
The name "Miscanthus jinxianensis L. Liu" (Fl. Reipubl. Popularis Sin. 10(2): 7. 1997) was not validly published because no Latin description was provided. It probably refers to a slightly large form of M. sinensis. The specimen on which it is based has not been seen.
This description covers characteristics that may be relevant to fire ecology and is not meant for identification. Keys for identification are available (e.g., [24,36,36,38,65,87]).
Aboveground: Chinese silvergrass is a perennial [37,84] grass. In North America, Chinese silvergrass is 3 feet (1 m) [87] to 10 feet (3 m) tall [23,36,38,98]. Studies from Japan indicate that Chinese silvergrass does not get taller than 6 feet (2 m) [34,78,100,103,113], but in the Philippines it may grow taller than 10 feet (3 m) [21]. Chinese silvergrass may be taller in warmer climates [14]. A clump of Chinese silvergrass may attain a width equal to its height at maturity [29]. Individual leaf blades are up to 3 feet (1 m) long and from 0.8 inch (2 cm) [38,87] to 4 inches (10 cm) wide [36]. Its flowers occur in a panicle [31,65] that is 6 to 24 inches (20-61 cm) long [31] and consists of an aggregate of racemes 4 to 8 inches (10-20 cm) long [38]. Chinese silvergrass seed collected from a Japanese grassland measured an average of 2.1 mm long × 0.8 mm wide [35].
Belowground: Chinese silvergrass is rhizomatous [14,31,57]. Information pertaining to Chinese silvergrass's underground structure is limited to what is known about it from its native range, primarily Japan. In a grassland where Chinese silvergrass was the second most dominant species, most of the rhizomes were restricted to the top 8 inches (20 cm) of the soil [34]. In another grassland, most Chinese silvergrass rhizomes were in the upper 4 inches (10 cm) of soil, and most of the roots were in the upper 20 inches (60 cm) of soil, although some roots extended as far down as 47 inches (120 cm) (review by [96]).
Fifty percent of Chinese silvergrass's biomass is underground [33]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass rhizomes branched 3 times/year on average, and 62% of the new branches developed aboveground shoots during that year. The average length of newly branched rhizomes producing shoots was 1.9 inches (4.7 cm) (Matumura and others 1986 cited in [96]).
Stand structure: In Japan, Chinese silvergrass forms distinct patches that may be monoclonal [57]. Shoots within a patch are connected by branching rhizomes. In a grassland in Japan, Chinese silvergrass patches ranged from 1 to 3.75 square feet (915-3,480 cm²) in size and contained 98 to 339 shoots/patch [58]. In another Japanese grassland, the average number of Chinese silvergrass patches in 20-foot² (2 m²) plots was 6.0. The estimated age of the largest patch was 15 years. Chinese silvergrass cover within the plot ranged from 6% to 50% [78]. In an international study of 5 countries, Chinese silvergrass's average shoot density ranged from 57 shoots/m² to 167 shoots/m² [14]. In the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass culms radiate upward and interlock with those of adjacent clumps, often forming a passageway about half a meter high, leaving the ground rather open between clumps. On gentle slopes, Chinese silvergrass may form near monocultures, becoming less dominant on steeper slopes [21]. Reduced light and other resources in the center of a patch causes center shoots to die, resulting in the formation of a 'fairy ring' of surviving peripheral shoots [58,96].
Chinese silvergrass is nonnative to North America. It occurs in "pockets" [31] in most eastern states from Massachusetts south throughout the mid-Atlantic and southeastern states to Florida and across the South to Louisiana. It occurs in several Great Lakes states including Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois and also in Ontario, Canada. In the West, it occurs in Colorado and California [81,108]. Because it is widely used as an ornamental in many parts of North America [71,72,98] and escapes cultivation [40,65,70,77], Chinese silvergrass may occur in other locations in North America. At the time of this writing (2010), Chinese silvergrass was not considered a major invader of wildlands in any area of North America; however, based on invasive species rankings and publications, there appears to be more concern over its spread in the eastern half the United States than in the western half [17,31,61,104,114]. Plants Database provides a distributional map of Chinese silvergrass's North American range.
Chinese silvergrass is native to Asia [36,38,72,98,117]. Its range extends north to the Kuril Islands (Russia) in the subarctic and to the islands of Hokkaido (Japan), south and west throughout the main islands of Japan, the Korean peninsula, eastern China, and to the subtropics in Ryukyu (Japan) and Taiwan ([83], review by [96]). The islands of Habamai and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in Russia may be the northern limit of Chinese silvergrass (Shimada and others 1992 cited in [96]).
Although it is unclear exactly when and where Chinese silvergrass was introduced to North America, several floristic surveys from the eastern United States indicated that by the early 1940s, Chinese silvergrass occurred along roadsides, railroad tracks, and many other places in New Jersey [76], Pennsylvania [76,77], and West Virginia [16]. In 1942, Moldenke [76] described Chinese silvergrass as "abundantly naturalized" in Washington, DC. Chinese silvergrass continued to spread in the eastern United States and to other parts of North America, but it is unclear how or when this occurred.
Because little has been described about what types of plant communities are most vulnerable to Chinese silvergrass invasion in North America, it is unclear what FIRE REGIMES it is associated with or how it may influence FIRE REGIMES in North America. D'Antonio and others [18] speculated that the most "significant" effect of invasion by nonnative grasses in general is the potential of nonnative grasses to increase fire frequency and perhaps intensity because these grasses provide the fine fuels necessary for the initiation and propagation of fire [18]. NatureServe [81] suggested that Chinese silvergrass may alter FIRE REGIMES in plant communities it invades but provided no details or examples.
In Japan, Chinese silvergrass grasslands are maintained by annual prescribed fire [25,78,80], suggesting it is adapted to frequent fire. In subtropical Asia, Chinese silvergrass is a codominant groundlayer species in Benguet pine forests where fire may occur every 1 to 3 years; however, it is unclear if these fires are wild or prescribed. In this plant community, fire intensity and severity vary according to fire frequency. Annual fires usually consume dead organic matter including grasses. Where fire is excluded for long periods, wildfires tend to be of "extreme intensity" due to high fuel accumulation. Most fires take place during the dry season from the middle of January until May [27].
As of this writing (2010), detailed information on fire intensity and severity in areas where Chinese silvergrass occurs was limited to prescribed fires used to maintain Chinese silvergrass grasslands in Asia. Average fire temperatures and flame heights were measured for prescribed fires in a Chinese silvergrass grassland in Japan. Average fire temperature was greatest for spring fire, while average flame height was highest for fall fire. A complete list of fire temperatures and flame heights, weather, air temperature, wind spread and direction, fuel load, and rate of spread for individual fires is provided in the publication [47]. In another Chinese silvergrass grassland in Japan, charred plant material and half-charred plants were scattered over an area that had undergone a prescribed fire [92], suggesting low to moderate fire severity.
See the Fire Regime Table for further information on FIRE REGIMES of vegetation communities in which Chinese silvergrass may occur. Find further fire regime information for the plant communities in which this species may occur by entering the species name in the FEIS home page under "Find FIRE REGIMES".
Fire adaptations: Chinese silvergrass survives fire primarily because of its ability to sprout from rhizomes [28,35,46,47] and tillering [46,47], but it may also establish from seed after fire [28]. One study from Japan indicated that when aboveground culms of Chinese silvergrass are destroyed by fire or mowing, regeneration occurs primarily from rhizomes rather than from seed [35]. Chinese silvergrass regenerated from both rhizomes and seeds in a Japanese red pine forest after a March prescribed fire; however, postfire regeneration was substantially greater from rhizomes (average 0.62 rhizome sprout/m²) than from seed ( average 0.02 seedling/m²) [28].
Plant response to fire: Information available as of 2010 suggests Chinese silvergrass responds favorably to fire. One invasive plant publication from the southeastern United States indicated that Chinese silvergrass establishes and spreads easily , particularly after burning [72]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass grasslands are maintained with regular annual burning [26,46,80,92]. A regression model developed for pine forests and grasslands in the Philippines indicated that Chinese silvergrass's importance tended to increase with time since fire. In a pine forest, Chinese silvergrass dominated the ground vegetation, which had not burned for over 5 years; however, Kowal [60] speculated that that if fire continued to be excluded, most of the pine forest and adjacent grassland would eventually be replaced by montane forest species.
Studies from Japan suggest that fire may increase tillering [46,47], accelerate leaf emergence, and increase photosynthetic rates [47] in Chinese silvergrass. Fujita [20] observed increased chlorophyll content in Chinese silvergrass after fire and attributed it to postfire increases in soil nitrogen. A survey from the Philippines suggested that fire facilitates Chinese silvergrass growth by "opening up the vegetation and restoring ashes to the ground" [21]. One review indicated that charred residues of Chinese silvergrass contribute to the accumulation of humus on some sites in Japan [96].
Fire may damage Chinese silvergrass culms (see IMMEDIATE FIRE EFFECT ON PLANT), but plants typically recover quickly by tillering and sprouting from rhizomes. In a Chinese silvergrass grassland burned in April or May (when Chinese silvergrass's rhizome starch reserves are high and culms are not fully emerged (see Seasonal Development)), tillering was 2 to 4 times greater in burned plots than in the unburned plot. By fall of the same year, Chinese silvergrass abundance (based on height, dry weight, or culm number) on burned plots was nearly equal to that on the unburned plot [46,47]. In plots burned in June of that same year, Chinese silvergrass recovery was slower, but by the next growing season, the number of Chinese silvergrass culms exceeded those observed in plots burned in April or May [46].
Fire may not favor Chinese silvergrass in all instances. In Japan, a Chinese silvergrass-dominated grassland transitioned to a bicolor lespedeza stand after being burned repeatedly in early spring [35]. In another Chinese silvergrass grassland, Chinese silvergrass persisted on a site that had been burned annually; however, its growth was greater on unburned sites than on burned sites [80].
Invasive plant publications from southeastern United States indicate that Chinese silvergrass is considered highly flammable and a fire hazard [18,72,99]. A survey from the Philippines suggested that Chinese silvergrass provides abundant "material" for fire [21]. In Japan, annual prescribed fire consumes dead [27,78] Chinese silvergrass culms and litter [25]. Chinese silvergrass litter is typically greatest in May when plant material from the previous growing season has accumulated. Its litter decomposes gradually over the growing season, reaching its lowest abundance in October [34]. In an experimental Chinese silvergrass grassland in Japan, the amount of dried grasses and litter before fire ranged from 330 g/m² to 950 g/m². Prior to burning, the fuel was "pushed down" to resemble early spring conditions and spread out to <20 inches (40 cm) above the soil surface. The fire's spread rate ranged from 0.5 to 4.0 m/minute in fall fires, and from 0.7 to 1.4 m/minute in spring fires [46]. In another Chinese silvergrass grassland in Japan, "fire ran quickly on the soil surface" [92].
In subtropical Asia, Chinese silvergrass is a codominant groundlayer species in Benguet pine forests. During the dry season, cured grasses and pine litter favor the spread of surface fires, which tend to kill pine seedlings and other fire-sensitive vegetation. Pine stands with fires at short intervals (1-3 years) had little pine regeneration (Goldammer 1985 cited in [27]).
Climate: Information pertaining to Chinese silvergrass relationship to climate in North America is limited to 2 localized examples. Chinese silvergrass occurred in a deciduous woodland in Maryland where the regional climate was described as mild temperate and rainy with no distinct dry season; summers were hot and winters mild. The average daily maximum temperature was 67.3 °F (19.6 °C) and average daily minimum temperature was 43 °F (5.9 °C). The warmest month was July and coldest months were January and February. The average total annual rainfall was 45.04 inches (1,144 mm), with the wettest month occurring in August and the driest month in February [95]. Chinese silvergrass occasionally occurred in a longleaf pine ecosystem of the Sandhills region in the southeastern United States that experienced 4 distinct annual seasons. Humid southwestern airflows predominated during late spring and summer, while northwesterly cold fronts alternated with easterly rainy spells during late fall and winter. Fall and spring were the driest seasons. The average winter temperature was 44 °F (6.9 °C), while the average summer temperature was 78.8 °F (26.0 °C). Annual precipitation averaged 47 inches (1,200 mm) of rain plus 3.0 inches (75 mm) of snow [93]. Temperature may influence Chinese silvergrass's elevational distribution (see Elevation).
In Japan, Chinese silvergrass occurs in subarctic, cool-temperate, and warm-temperate climates [83]. It has been reported on sites with annual mean temperatures ranging from 44 °F (6.5 °C) [34,51] to 64.8 °F (18.2 °C) [37,54,57,58,78] and annual mean precipitation ranging from around 47 inches (1,200 mm) [51,78] to 144 inches (3,670 mm) [34,37,54,57,58]. In a 3-year field test across several countries, Chinese silvergrass established and grew on sites where average annual rainfall from April to September ranged from 5.79 inches (147 mm) to 18.1 inches (459 mm) [14].
Tests performed in Europe indicate that Chinese silvergrass hybrids are tolerant of cold, although level of cold tolerance may vary between cultivars. Chinese silvergrass had greater tolerance of frost than other species of Miscanthus, which was attributed to lower moisture content in its rhizomes [11]. In field tests in Denmark and Sweden, Chinese silvergrass rhizomes survived winter soil temperatures below 24 °F (-4.5 °C) [14].
Elevation: Chinese silvergrass occurs at elevations <700 feet (200 m) in California [36]. At a National Historic Site in North Carolina, Chinese silvergrass occurred at a low elevations [115]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass has been reported from 1,000 (400 m) [80] to 5,900 feet ( 1,800 m) [34,74,110].
A literature review indicated that elevation may influence Chinese silvergrass's growth and development [96]. Hayashi and Hishinuma [34] considered 4,300 feet (1,300 m) to be near the limits of Chinese silvergrass's distribution in Sagadaira, Japan. At this elevation, growth may not be sufficient to form monocultures [34]. Other reports from Japan indicate that Chinese silvergrass occurred at elevations from 5,410 to 5,810 feet (1,650-1,770 m) but dominated only around 5,410 feet (1,650 m). Researchers attributed lower cover of Chinese silvergrass at higher elevations to a reduction in mean annual temperature [74]. In the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass dominated the groundlayer vegetation at elevations from 5,380 to 7,500 feet (1,640-2,300 m). Its dominance declined at lower elevations and in valley grasslands [60].
General habitat: In North America, Chinese silvergrass occurs primarily in anthropogenically altered sites such as previously cultivated fields, vacant lots, yards, gardens, irrigation ditches, along roadsides and railroad tracks, and near old home sites and cemeteries [19,32,36,65,69,70,75,76,87,93,107]. It occasionally occurs in wildlands or on the fringe of wildlands in deciduous woodlands [95], coniferous forests [93], forest clearings [31,99], and in grasslands [17,70,112].
Substrate and pH: In Japan, Chinese silvergrass occurs in most soil textures ([47,54], Jinno and Umeno 1995 cited in [96]). In one study, Chinese silvergrass occurred in mountain grasslands that contained a thick humus layer [118]. Chinese silvergrass grasslands may occur on volcanic ash or volcanic ash-like soil [53,118]. On these sites, large amounts of dead plant material, produced by dying Chinese silvergrass, is incorporated into soil organic matter each year [53,91,92,118].
Available information indicates that Chinese silvergrass prefers moist but not saturated soils. A nursery publication from Oregon stated that the cultivar 'Gracillimus' tolerates wet soil but prefers well-drained soil [29]. One study from Japan claimed that Chinese silvergrass does not grow well where the A horizon is shallow and the amount of moisture in the soil is relatively low [51]. Soil moisture content in Chinese silvergrass-dominated riparian communities in Japan ranged from 14% to 25% (Jinno and Umeno 1995 cited in [96]). In another Chinese silvergrass grassland in Japan, moisture content for the A, B, and C horizons ranged from 46% to 52% [34]. In the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass occurred near a bog but did not readily invade areas that were inundated with water for part or all of the year [21]. In a pine forest in the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass occurred on moist "protected" sites [60]. Chinese silvergrass hybrids are being developed to improve drought tolerance [13].
Chinese silvergrass occurs in a wide range of soil acidities. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass grasslands have soil pH from 3.8 [52,53] to 6.5 [26,34,52,53,100]; however, seedling establishment may be inhibited on sites with very low or high pH (see Seedling establishment and plant growth). Soils in Chinese silvergrass grasslands may be slightly more acidic in the B and C horizons than in the A horizon [34]. On sites where Chinese silvergrass distribution was scattered, soil pH ranged from 2.7 to 6.8 [2]. In eastern Asia, Chinese silvergrass excretes citric acid, allowing it to grow in acidic soils containing high concentrations of aluminum [52]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass is a dominant species in acidic volcanic ash soils [118]. Landscapers from Portland, Oregon, recommend that Chinese silvergrass cultivars be planted in slightly acidic soil, preferably enriched with organic material [29].
Impacts: Available evidence suggests that Chinese silvergrass may be invasive in some areas of North America; however, to what degree it impacts native plant communities and ecosystems is unclear. One greenhouse study determined that Chinese silvergrass grows well when planted with switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) [71]—a common and "aggressive" grass native to North American tallgrass prairies [38]—suggesting Chinese silvergrass may displace native grasses if it establishes in tallgrass prairies [71]. Based on Chinese silvergrass's popularity as an ornamental grass in the United States and its potential to become invasive in some situations, NatureServe [81] has given Chinese silvergrass an invasive species ranking of medium. Species given this ranking pose a moderate threat to native species and ecological communities [81].
Chinese silvergrass was indentified as one of a dozen invasive plants that land managers in the southern Appalachian states are most concerned about [61], and it is listed as invasive or potentially invasive in 6 southeastern states: Alabama [1], Georgia [22], Kentucky [55], Missouri [73], South Carolina [94], and Tennessee [104]. In Kentucky, Chinese silvergrass is considered a potential threat to whitehair goldenrod (Solidago albopilosa), an endemic in the Red River Gorge [114] that is federally listed as threatened [109]. Chinese silvergrass is considered potentially invasive in Connecticut [15] and forms large clumps that may displace native species throughout New England [70]. An invasive plant guide from the upper Great Lakes states indicates that Chinese silvergrass is a minor invader in wildlands, particularly grasslands [17]. In its native range, Chinese silvergrass is considered a weed on disturbed sites [89] and in tree plantations, where it suppresses planted saplings if not controlled [37].
In addition to displacing native plants, Chinese silvergrass may have other ecological impacts. Chinese silvergrass litter decomposes slowly (Matumura and others 1986 [96]), which may slow the return of nutrients to the soil, particularly in the absence of fire [96]. NatureServe [81] suggested that Chinese silvergrass may alter FIRE REGIMES in plant communities where it invades but gave no examples of this occurring.
Chinese silvergrass hybrids are being developed that produce high yields [9,12] and are tolerant to cold [11] or drought [13]. Introduction of these hybrids to North America could potentially increase Chinese silvergrass's spread.
Control: As of this writing (2010), information pertaining to Chinese silvergrass control in North America was limited to a few generalizations made regarding the use of physical or chemical controls. Researchers in Japan have had some success at controlling Chinese silvergrass through the use of livestock grazing (see Biological control).
Fire: For information on the use of prescribed fire to control this species, see Fire Management Considerations.
Prevention: Because Chinese silvergrass spreads vegetatively, it is best not to plant it adjacent to wildland areas. Sterile varieties are being developed to reduce its spread [9], but vegetative reproduction will likely be possible from these populations.
Cultural control: No information is available on this topic.
Physical or mechanical control: An Internet publication from the Mid-Atlantic states indicated that Chinese silvergrass may be controlled by hand-pulling seedlings and shallow-rooted plants. Swearingen and others [99] recommended that larger plants be dug out, including the entire root system, to prevent vegetative sprouting, and cautioned that mowing Chinese silvergrass may spread plants into new areas. An invasive plant guide from the upper Great Lakes states suggested manual or mechanical removal of Chinese silvergrass but provided no details on these methods [17].
In Japan, mowing is the most common practice used to control Chinese silvergrass in plantations [37]. One literature review indicated that mowing Chinese silvergrass grasslands 3 times/year decreased Chinese silvergrass's annual biomass production from 7.1 to 0.75 t/ha and reduced its height from 33 inches (85 cm) to 15 inches (38 cm) [96]; however, the source of this information was unclear.
Biological control: Widespread use of Chinese silvergrass as an ornamental makes it unlikely that a biological control will be developed for this species. Additionally, many ornamental plants, particularly Chinese silvergrass, are chosen because they have few biological enemies [101].
Studies from Japan indicate that Chinese silvergrass may have a low tolerance to livestock grazing ([37,113], review by [96]). In Japan, livestock preferred newly developing leaves of Chinese silvergrass, which have high photosynthetic capacity and contain high concentrations of nitrogen. Chinese silvergrass generally declines and vegetation dominance shifts to other species when livestock graze it (review by [96]). On a tree plantation in Japan, 4 years of livestock grazing reduced the average size of Chinese silvergrass plants. After the initial grazing season (190 days), the proportion of undefoliated Chinese silvergrass clumps and shoots "rapidly" decreased, leaving approximately 20% of clumps and 10% of shoots intact. Researchers concluded that cattle grazing could potentially control Chinese silvergrass in tree plantations but recommended further study to determine optimum grazing intensity [37].
Chemical control: One invasive plant publication suggested that periodic spot spraying with glyphosate beginning in spring—when the new shoots are 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) tall—until fall when the plants flower, may control Chinese silvergrass [31]. An invasive plant publication from the upper Great Lakes states indicated that a fall or late spring application of glyphosate controlled Chinese silvergrass [99]. The Tennessee Exotic Pest Plant Council [104] recommended a combination of imazapyr and glyphosate treatments in the fall for Chinese silvergrass control. Continued spot treatments may be necessary to kill new rhizome sprouts [31,104].
Integrated management: No information is available on this topic.One study indicated that reintroduced elk in Kentucky used Chinese silvergrass for forage, primarily in the summer and occasionally in the fall [90]. Based on its palatability to cattle, domestic goats, and domestic sheep, Vermont researchers speculated that Chinese silvergrass could be used as livestock forage in northern temperate regions [5].
In Korea and western Japan, Chinese silvergrass has been used for domestic livestock feed [37,41].In Korea and Japan, birds use Chinese silvergrass for nesting [41,56]. A literature review gives a detailed description of Chinese silvergrass importance to wildlife in its native range of Japan, including its use by invertebrates [96]. Preliminary studies suggest that grasshoppers may influence the productivity of Chinese silvergrass grasslands [80]; however, in another study grasshoppers had little effect on the primary production of Chinese silvergrass [67].
Palatability and/or nutritional value: A literature review indicates that that Chinese silvergrass may be highly palatable to livestock [96]. In one study, cattle in Japan preferred Chinese silvergrass over other available grasses and herbs [37].
Cover value: No information is available on this topic.
In North America, Chinese silvergrass primarily invades anthropogenically altered sites (see General habitat);
there are few examples in the literature of it invading wildlands. Invasive plant guides indicate that Chinese silvergrass invades native grasslands on Cape Cod [112] and in the Upper Great Lakes area [17]. In Maryland, Chinese silvergrass occurred in deciduous woodlands dominated by oaks (Quercus spp.) and other deciduous trees. The woodlands were generally wet to mesic and often occurred near the edges of swamps [95]. Chinese silvergrass occurred but was rare in a longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystem in the Sandhills region of the southeastern United States [93].
In Japan where it is native, Chinese silvergrass is the dominant species in many grasslands [46,54,83,100,111,113]. One publication estimated that Chinese silvergrass grasslands represented about 25% of all natural or seminatural grassland area in Japan [46]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass grasslands typically contain a diverse assemblage of herbaceous species [96]. A 15-year-old Chinese silvergrass-dominated grassland in Japan contained 96 plant species representing 42 families. The upper vegetation stratum (3-7 feet (1-2 m) tall) was comprised solely of Chinese silvergrass; the intermediate stratum (2-3 feet (0.5-1 m) tall) contained several tall herbs, shrubs, lianas, and tree seedlings; and the lowest stratum (0-2 feet (0-0.5 m) tall) contained short herbs and rosettes of taller herbs [78]. Another Chinese silvergrass-dominated grassland in Japan contained about 25 species [83]. Chinese silvergrass grasslands occurring on slopes may have greater species diversity than those on the valley floor (Koyanagi and others 2008 cited in [96]). In some Chinese silvergrass grasslands, dense shade from its leaves may prevent other species from establishing [21], and species diversity may be lower in Chinese silvergrass grassland occurring on degraded sites [83].
Species most commonly associated with Chinese silvergrass grasslands in Japan include western bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) ([27,34,35,43,46,83], Koyanagi and others 2008 cited in [96]) and bicolor lespedeza (Lespedeza bicolor) ([35,83,103], Koyanagi and others 2008 cited in [96]), although a variety of other herbaceous species may also be present [6,35,46,83,103,113]. In Chinese silvergrass grasslands, C3 grasses typically dominate in early spring; by summer and fall, dominance shifts to C4 species, including Chinese silvergrass (review by [96]).
In North America, Chinese silvergrass is widely sold as an ornamental grass for landscaping [17,71,72]. In Mississippi, it has been recommended for use as a vegetative hedge [64].
A literature review indicated that in its native range, Chinese silvergrass culms have been used for roof thatching on traditional buildings. It is used to make yellow dye and storage bags for charcoal. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass is used to stabilize easily erodible soils [96] and is planted to revegetate abandoned ski slopes [106].
Because Chinese silvergrass is highly productive and uses nutrients and water efficiently, it has been identified as a potential biomass energy crop [9,49]. Of particular interest is the sterile triploid Chinese silvergrass hybrid Miscanthus × giganteus [49]. In Europe, Chinese silvergrass has been evaluated as a potential fuel for electricity production [42]. In Korea and western Japan, it has been used for organic fertilizer [37,41].
Information pertaining to Chinese silvergrass's North American phenology is limited. It is a warm-season grass [37,84]. One nursery publication indicated that 'Gracillimus', a Chinese silvergrass cultivar, flowers in October in Portland, Oregon [29]. Floras from the northeastern United States [65] and North and South Carolina indicate that Chinese silvergrass flowers from September through November [87]. One invasive species manual from the Southeast indicates Chinese silvergrass flowers from August to November and produces seed from September to January [72].
In Japanese grasslands, Chinese silvergrass begins growing in April [78,118] or early May [80,118] and continues through August [51,103,118], or in some locations, into November [57,78]. In the warmer regions of Japan, shoots emerge between June and November [58]. One publication from Japan indicated that Chinese silvergrass flowers from September to October [33]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass plants occurring at high latitudes or elevations may flower as much as 2 months earlier than those at lower latitudes and elevations (Adati 1958 cited in [96]). Chinese silvergrass undergoes end-of-season shoot senescence [57], and in some locations, culms become yellow and begin to wither in September [118]. Shoots developing late in the season may survive the winter [57].
Chinese silvergrass may undergo seasonal changes in its rhizome carbohydrate reserves. In Japan, carbohydrate content in Chinese silvergrass rhizomes was depleted in June when new shoots were developing [46] but was restored in the fall after plants flowered [45,46].
In Japan, Chinese silvergrass forms a soil seed bank, but densities may vary depending on the plant community and season. In a Chinese silvergrass-dominated grassland, 80% of the Chinese silvergrass seeds collected from the soil seed bank were viable. The average number of buried Chinese silvergrass seeds in a 3 × 3 × 0.3-foot (1 × 1 × 0.1 m) plot was 875 in the spring and 340 in the summer. In grasslands dominated by other species, the average number of buried Chinese silvergrass seeds in the same size plot was 1,933 seeds in the spring and 1,980 seeds in the summer. In both Chinese silvergrass and Korean lawngrass (Zoysia japonica) grasslands, Chinese silvergrass soil seed bank density was greatest in the first 0.8 inch (2 cm) of soil and declined sharply in samples collected from deeper depths. Chinese silvergrass viable seed density was 10 times greater in the Korean lawngrass stand than in stands dominated by Chinese silvergrass [35].
Vertical soil distribution of Chinese silvergrass seed in Japanese grasslands in 8 plots (10 ×10 × 10 cm²) [35] Depth (cm) 0-2 2-4 4-6 6-8 8-10 Average number of Chinese silvergrass seeds 48 5 5 4 8In Japan, soil samples (3 feet² × 4 inches deep (1 m² × 10 cm) ) were taken from three grasslands with average Chinese silvergrass cover of 34.0%, 69.0%, and 76.5%. Grasslands contained an average of 220, 630, and 600 viable Chinese silvergrass seeds/plot, respectively. Samples of the same size collected from a shrubland with 18.7% Chinese silvergrass cover contained an average of 30 viable seeds per sample [111].
The density of viable Chinese silvergrass seed in the soils of various forest communities in southwestern Japan ranged from 0 to 2,238 seeds/0.4 m² plot at a depth of 4 inches (10 cm) and was generally higher in samples collected in fall rather than spring [79].
It is unclear how long Chinese silvergrass seeds stay viable in the soil. In the laboratory, Chinese silvergrass can be stored for at least 1 year without an appreciable loss of viability; the storage method is not critical. However, older seed may have a lower germination rate [9].
Information pertaining to seedling establishment and growth of Chinese silvergrass is limited. Broadcasting Chinese silvergrass seed onto the soil surface produced 15.5 seedlings/m² on average. Chinese silvergrass seedlings emerged within 10 days of being sown but "many" seedlings died from desiccation during the warm, dry conditions that occurred 3 to 4 weeks after sowing [10]. Seedling growth may be inhibited by high (≥8.5) or low (≤4.0) pH, resulting in reduced dry weight [4]. One literature review suggested that in "extremely" acidic soil, Chinese silvergrass may not reproduce by seed [96].
A review of Japanese literature indicated that average aboveground dry matter biomass of Chinese silvergrass ranges from 1.8 t/ha to 21.8 t/ha, although the latter is considered exceptionally high. Warmer climates of Japan may produce higher yields. More research is needed to determine how climate may influence Chinese silvergrass growth [96]. Chinese silvergrass seedlings, grown from seed collected from wild populations in the eastern United States, had an average shoot biomass of 0.08 ounce (2.3 g) and an average height of 17.9 inches (45.4 cm) 15 weeks after seed was planted [71].
Shade tolerance: Available evidence at the time of this publication (2010) indicates that Chinese silvergrass grows in full sun but tolerates at least some shade. An invasive species guide from Massachusetts stated that Chinese silvergrass grows in full sun [66]. Landscapers in the Portland, Oregon, recommend that Chinese silvergrass cultivars be planted in full sun to slight shade [29]. One invasive species publication from the southeastern United States stated that Chinese silvergrass is shade tolerant [72]. In southeastern Kentucky, Chinese silvergrass is commonly found in secondary Cumberland Plateau woodlands [68]. In Japan, Chinese silvergrass was the second most dominant species on a site shaded by a 49-foot (15 m) tall Japanese-cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). The maximum light intensity at that site was 67% (even at the most unshaded time of the season) compared to a sunny site that was not shaded [59]. In a pine forest in the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass cover was unaffected by canopy cover [60].
Potential successional stages: In Japan, Chinese silvergrass-dominated grasslands are typically considered seral stages in secondary succession [83] that eventually transition to forests [25,26,35,51,78,80,83] or Korean lawngrass-dominated grasslands (Itow 1962 cited in [96]). In the absence of fire, Chinese silvergrass grasslands have converted to forest within 20 [26] to 100 [25] years.
In Japan, Chinese silvergrass establishes during early stages of secondary succession [85] in young tree plantations [37] or forest clearcuts [45]. Chinese silvergrass may also establish in grasslands shortly after pioneering short-grass species begin to decline [83]. Chinese silvergrass also establishes during the initial stages of primary succession [33] or during early secondary succession on volcanic sites [100]. Once established, Chinese silvergrass grasslands may persist for several decades or even for a century before transitioning to other communities (Sakanoue 2001 cited in [96]).
Available evidence suggests that successional changes in Chinese silvergrass may be influenced by habitat and resource availability. In Japan, the relative dominance of Chinese silvergrass in plant communities increased faster on ridge and slope habitats compared to valley habitat, leading researchers to speculate that resource availability in different habitat types and/or topographical features may influence Chinese silvergrass's growth and its subsequent successional patterns [85]. In Chinese silvergrass grasslands in the Philippines, dense shade from Chinese silvergrass leaves may prevent later-successional species from establishing [21], particularly pine seedlings [60]. Researchers in Japan speculated that seasonal changes in light availability in Chinese silvergrass grasslands may influence the establishment and subsequent growth of tree seedlings [103]. On abandoned ski slopes in Japan, tree seedlings established better in patches of Chinese silvergrass than in patches of other native and nonnative grasses, leading Tsuyuzaki [106] to speculate that Chinese silvergrass grasslands may facilitate successional transitions toward forest. In the Philippines, Chinese silvergrass surrounding bogs may eventually dominate the bogs if standing water is drained [21].
In Japan and the Philippines, most Chinese silvergrass grasslands are artificially maintained as "subclimax" communities by mowing, grazing, and burning [21,25,26,35,46,78,80,82,83], with 2 exceptions. On volcanic soils, Chinese silvergrass dominated "subclimax" grasslands under "natural" conditions [118]. Chinese silvergrass grasslands occurring at high elevations above the tree line may persist in late succession without human intervention [83].The scientific name of Chinese silvergrass is Miscanthus sinensis Andersson (Poaceae) [24,36,38,50,65,116]. Hitchcock [38] recognizes 3 varieties in the United States:
Miscanthus sinensis var. gracillimus Hitchc. (narrow blades)
Miscanthus sinensis var. variegatus Beal (blades striped with white)
Miscanthus sinensis var. zebrinus Beal (blades banded or zoned with white)
Various Chinese silvergrass infrataxa occur in Taiwan and Japan ([8], review by [96]).
Under cultivation, Chinese silvergrass is often hybridized with other species of this genus [12], particularly with M. sacchariflorus to create the hybrid Miscanthus × giganteus [49]. More than 50 cultivars of Chinese silvergrass have been introduced to North America since 1980 [70].
Ozdobnice čínská (Miscanthus sinensis) je travina rostoucí přirozeně ve východní Asii nejvíce v Číně, Japonsku a v Koreji.
Bylina, trvalka rostoucí do výšky 0,8-2 m (vzácně 4 m). Listy jsou 18–75 cm dlouhé a 0,3–2 cm široké. Květy červenavé, vyrůstají nad listy. Kvete v červenci až srpnu.
Preferuje slunečné polohy a propustné vlhké živné půdy ale snese většinu běžných půd i bez zálivky. Množení semeny, dělením trsů. Vlivem silných dešťů, nebo během zimy se trs může rozklesávat, někdy se preventivně svazuje, vhodné je také seřezání na nižší výšku.
Je široce rozšířen jako okrasná rostlina v teplých regionech celého světa. Stává se invazivní druh v části Severní Ameriky[1]. Bylo vyšlechtěno několik kultivarů - 'Stricta' s vertikálními listy, 'Variegata' s bílými okraji listů a 'Zebrina' se světlými příčnými pruhy .
Kultivary se liší především zbarvením listů a růstem.
Kvetoucí ozdobnice čínská
Příčně pruhované listy kultivaru 'Zebrinus'
Ozdobnice čínská v Japonsku
Obrázky, zvuky či videa k tématu ozdobnice čínská ve Wikimedia Commons
Ozdobnice čínská (Miscanthus sinensis) je travina rostoucí přirozeně ve východní Asii nejvíce v Číně, Japonsku a v Koreji.
Chinaschilf (Miscanthus sinensis), auch irrtümlicherweise unter dem Namen Elefantengras bekannt, ist eine ausdauernde Pflanzenart aus der Familie der Süßgräser (Poaceae). Sie stammt aus Ostasien (China, Japan, Korea).
Miscanthus sinensis charakterisiert sich durch eine schilfartige Wuchsform, bildet dichte bis lockere Horste aus und erreicht Höhen zwischen 80 und 200 (selten 300 bis 400) Zentimeter. Die Pflanzen bilden ein horizontal wachsendes, kurzes Rhizom aus, das daran ansetzende Wurzelsystem kann in Abhängigkeit von der Bodenbeschaffenheit bis in eine Tiefe von 2,5 m vordringen.[1][2]
Die unverzweigten, festen Halme haben einen Durchmesser von 3 bis 10 Millimeter, die Knoten können kahl oder leicht behaart sein. Die am Ansatz des Stängels sowie am Stängel entlang wechselständig stehenden Blätter zeigen die für C4-Pflanzen charakteristische aufrechte Blattstellung, die eine maximale Lichtaufnahme ermöglicht. Die Blattscheide kann kahl oder filzig behaart sein. Die 18 bis 75 Zentimeter lange und 0,3 bis 2 (bis 4) Zentimeter breite Blattspreite ist linealisch und flach, vom Ansatz her verjüngt sie sich oder ist breit abgerundet und läuft spitz zu. Die Mittelrippe steht hervor, die Ränder sind rau oder glatt. Die 0,5 bis 4 Millimeter lange Ligula ist bewimpert.[2]
Der Blütenstand ist eine 20 bis 36 (ab 10) Zentimeter lange, annähernd kahle bis filzig behaarte Rispe, die Blütenstandsachse ist 6 bis 16 Zentimeter lang. Die einzelnen Trauben (deren Zahl insbesondere bei Sorten deutlich variieren kann) sind 10 bis 40 (4 bis 100) Zentimeter lang und erreichen einen Durchmesser von 10 bis 30 (ab 8) Zentimeter, die Internodien der Rhachis sind kahl und glatt bis schwach rau, ihre Knoten behaart. Die unteren Blütenstiele sind 0,5 bis 1,5 Millimeter lang, die oberen 1,5 bis 4 Millimeter.[2]
Die auf ungleich langen Ährchenstielen sitzenden, paarweise angeordneten[1] Ährchen sind filzig behaart bis kahl, ahlenförmig und 4 bis 6,5 Millimeter lang. Sie werden von den 5 bis 8 Millimeter langen Kallushärchen überragt, die annähernd gleichgeformten, häutigen Spelzen sind fünfnervig, spitz zulaufend, 4 bis 6,5 Millimeter lang und rückseitig kahl bis behaart, die Spitzen und der obere Rand sind behaart. Die unteren Deckspelzen sind lanzettlich und durchscheinend, 3,5 bis 4 Millimeter lang, an der Spitze und den Rändern behaart, sonst kahl, eine Nervatur fehlt. Die oberen Deckspelzen gleichen ihnen, erreichen aber nur eine Länge von 2,5 bis 3,5 Millimeter. Die Grannen sind 4 bis 12 Millimeter, die oberen Vorspelzen sind 1 bis 2 Millimeter lange Schuppenblätter. Die drei Staubbeutel sind rund 2,5 Millimeter lang.[2]
Die elliptische Karyopse[2] ist mit einer Länge von 2,2 mm, einer Dicke von 0,9 mm und einer Tausendkornmasse von 300 bis 950 mg typisch für windausgebreitete Pflanzen.[1]
Die Chromosomenzahl beträgt 2n = 40 oder 46.[3]
Chinaschilf ist in weiten Teilen Chinas sowie in Japan und Korea auf Berghängen, an Küsten sowie gestörten Standorten in Höhenlagen unter 2000 Meter weitverbreitet.[2]
In den USA haben sich als Zierpflanzen eingeführte Arten unkontrolliert durch Samen ausgebreitet und sind daher bereits 20 Jahre nach der Einführung als invasiv eingestuft worden. Besonders in den Zonen der gemäßigten Breiten der Atlantikküste,[4] konnten sie sich ausbreiten[5]; bekämpft werden sie am effektivsten mit glyphosathaltigen Herbiziden.[6]
In den Ursprungsländern sind etwa 40 Arten Schmetterlinge bekannt geworden, die das Chinaschilf als Wirtspflanze besuchen, die meisten davon aus Gattungen der Hesperiidae und Nymphalidae.[7]
Miscanthus verfügt über den sogenannten C4-Metabolismus, eine unter bestimmten Umweltbedingungen besonders effiziente Form der Photosynthese; daher zeichnet sich die Pflanze, verglichen mit den C3-Pflanzen, unter bestimmten klimatischen Bedingungen durch eine besonders hohe Biomasseleistung aus.
Miscanthus sinensis wurde 1855 durch Nils Johan Andersson erstbeschrieben. Die Art gilt als sehr variabel, daher kam es zur Beschreibung vieler Untertaxa und heute als synonym verstandener Arten. Synonyme sind: Miscanthus condensatus Hack., Saccharum japonicum Thunb., Miscanthus transmorrisonensis Hayata.[2][8]
In den Ursprungsgebieten war das Chinaschilf als Rohstoff für Matten und Flechtwerk zum Sicht- und Windschutz sowie als Futterpflanze bekannt. Seit den 1950er Jahren wird es neben Miscanthus sacchariflorus in Europa als Zierpflanze kultiviert. Es existieren zahlreiche Sorten, die Verwendung in der Gartengestaltung finden, wie 'Strictus', 'Ferner Osten' und 'Malepartus'.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus'
Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus', Blüte
Miscanthus sinensis 'Ferner Osten', Blüte
Miscanthus sinensis 'Malepartus', beginnende Blüte
Bereits 1935 wurde eine spezielle starkwüchsige Sorte, das Riesen-Chinaschilf (Miscanthus × giganteus), eine Kreuzung aus dem Chinaschilf mit Miscanthus sacchariflorus, von Japan über Dänemark nach Mitteleuropa eingeführt, das auch im europäischen Raum Wuchshöhen von bis zu vier Metern erreichen kann und deshalb seit dem Ende der 1970er Jahre vermehrt als nachwachsender Rohstoff zur energetischen und stofflichen Nutzung angebaut wird.
Chinaschilf (Miscanthus sinensis), auch irrtümlicherweise unter dem Namen Elefantengras bekannt, ist eine ausdauernde Pflanzenart aus der Familie der Süßgräser (Poaceae). Sie stammt aus Ostasien (China, Japan, Korea).
Miscanthus sinensis, the eulalia[1] or Chinese silver grass,[2] is a species of flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae, native to eastern Asia throughout most of China, Japan, Taiwan and Korea.
It is an herbaceous perennial grass, growing to 0.8–2 m (3–7 ft) tall, rarely 4 m (13 ft), forming dense clumps from an underground rhizome. The leaves are 18–75 cm (7–30 in) tall and 0.3–2 cm broad. The flowers are purplish, held above the foliage. This plant is the preferred structure for the nesting of some species of paper wasps, such as Ropalidia fasciata.[3]
The Latin specific epithet sinensis means "from China",[4] though the plant is found elsewhere in eastern Asia.
It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate climates around the world.
It has become an invasive species in parts of North America.[5] However, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of escape or hybridization with extant wild M. sinensis populations with breeding and proper management.[6]
Several cultivars have been selected, including 'Strictus' with narrow growth habit, 'Variegata' with white margins, and ‘Zebrinus’ (sometimes incorrectly rendered as 'Zebrina') with horizontal yellow and green stripes across the leaves. Those marked agm have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[7]
'Zebrinus'
'Strictus'
'Ferner Osten'
'Malepartus'
M. sinensis is a candidate for bioenergy production due to its high yield, even in high-stress environments, easy propagation, effective nutrient cycling, and high genetic variation.[24]
Plant with horizontal variegations
Magnified view of leaf;
0 to 1 = 1 mm; the saw-like edge can cut human skin
Japanese susuki of the plateau Miscanthus sinensis, the eulalia or Chinese silver grass, is a species of flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae, native to eastern Asia throughout most of China, Japan, Taiwan and Korea.
La ĉina kano (Miscanthus sinensis), ankaŭ konata erare sub la nomo elefanta herbo, estas plurjara planto el familio de poacoj (Poaceae). Ĝi kreskas originale en orienta Azio (Ĉinio, Japanio, Koreio). Ĝi estis enmetita en Usonon kiel ornamplanto, poste forte disvastiĝis.
La planton Miscanthus sinensis karakterizas kanoforma kreskaĵo; formas densan, ĝis lozan kreskaĵaron kaj atingas alton de 80 ĝis 200 (malofte 30 ĝis 400) centimetrojn. La plantoj formas horizontale kreskantan, mallongan rizomon, kies radikoj povas penetri la grundon ĝis 2,5 m.
La nedisbranĉiĝintaj, fortaj pajleroj havas la diametron de 3 ĝis 10 milimetroj, la knotoj povas estis kavaj aŭ facile harkovritaj. La folioj staras ŝanĝe, estas C4-tipaj, longaj de 18 ĝis 75 centimetroj, larĝaj 0,3 ĝis 2 (ĝis 4) centimetraj.
La infloresko estas paniklo, longa 10-20 ĝis 36 centimetroj.
En la originala kreskejo, oni uzas la ĉinan kanon kiel krudmaterialon por matoj kaj por plektaĵoj pro vid- kaj ventoprotekto, same kiel furaĝplanton. Ekde la 1950-aj jaroj, ĝi estas uzata en la eŭropaj landoj kiel ornamplanto, krom la Miscanthus sacchariflorus.
Oni jam importis en 1935 el Japanio tra Danio al Mez-Eŭropo la specife kresk-fortan specion, la gigantan ĉinan kanon (Miscanthus × giganteus), hibridon el la ĉina kano kaj la Miscanthus sacchariflorus. Tiu hibrido atingas en Eŭropo la alton de 4 metroj kaj pro tio oni uzas ĝin ekde la 1970-aj jaroj kiel energioplanton.
La ĉina kano (Miscanthus sinensis), ankaŭ konata erare sub la nomo elefanta herbo, estas plurjara planto el familio de poacoj (Poaceae). Ĝi kreskas originale en orienta Azio (Ĉinio, Japanio, Koreio). Ĝi estis enmetita en Usonon kiel ornamplanto, poste forte disvastiĝis.
Miscanthus sinensis (pasto: plateado chino, "maiden", "zebra", "porcupine", Eulalia) es un pasto nativo del este de Asia (China, Japón y Corea).
Es una herbácea perenne de hasta 0,8 a 2 m (raramente 4 m) de altura, formando densas matas con rizomas subterráneos. Las hojas son de 18 a 75 cm de longitud y 0,3 a 2 cm de ancho. Las flores son púrpuras, quedando debajo del follaje.
Es muy cultivada como ornamental en regiones templadas. En partes de Norteamérica constituye una plaga.[1]
Se han seleccionado cultivares, incluyendo a 'Stricta' con un hábito de crecimiento angosto, 'Variegata' con márgenes blancos, 'Zebrina' con rayas horizontales amarillas y verdes en las hojas.
Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus'
Miscanthus sinensis 'Strictus', flor
Miscanthus sinensis 'Ferner Osten'
Miscanthus sinensis 'Malepartus', flor
Miscanthus sinensis (pasto: plateado chino, "maiden", "zebra", "porcupine", Eulalia) es un pasto nativo del este de Asia (China, Japón y Corea).
Elefanttiheinä (Miscanthus sinensis) on alun perin aasialainen ruohovartinen kasvi.
Elefanttiheinä kasvaa suurina mättäinä. Se kasvaa 1–2 m, joskus jopa 4 m, korkeaksi. Sen lehdet ovat pitkiä (18–75 cm) ja kapeita (0,3–2 cm), ja kasvavat pystyssä, latvojen taipuessa alaspäin. Kukinnot ovat punertavia tai kullanvärisiä ja nousevat lehtien yläpuolelle. Koristeellisen ulkomuotonsa ansiosta se on yleinen puutarhakasvi kaikkialla maailmassa.[2] Se viihtyy valoisassa, aurinkoisessa paikassa. Sen siemeniä voi ostaa myös suomalaisista hyvin varustetuista puutarhaliikkeistä.
Elefanttiheinä on kotoisin Kiinasta, Koreasta ja Japanista. Istutusten takia se on levinnyt vieraslajiksi luontoon monin paikoin Pohjois-Amerikassa ja uhkaa syrjäyttää paikallisia kasvilajeja.[3][4]
Elefanttiheinälajikkeita ovat muun muassa 'Strictus', 'Variegatus' ja 'Zebrinus'.
Elefanttiheinä (Miscanthus sinensis) on alun perin aasialainen ruohovartinen kasvi.
Elefanttiheinä kasvaa suurina mättäinä. Se kasvaa 1–2 m, joskus jopa 4 m, korkeaksi. Sen lehdet ovat pitkiä (18–75 cm) ja kapeita (0,3–2 cm), ja kasvavat pystyssä, latvojen taipuessa alaspäin. Kukinnot ovat punertavia tai kullanvärisiä ja nousevat lehtien yläpuolelle. Koristeellisen ulkomuotonsa ansiosta se on yleinen puutarhakasvi kaikkialla maailmassa. Se viihtyy valoisassa, aurinkoisessa paikassa. Sen siemeniä voi ostaa myös suomalaisista hyvin varustetuista puutarhaliikkeistä.
Elefanttiheinä on kotoisin Kiinasta, Koreasta ja Japanista. Istutusten takia se on levinnyt vieraslajiksi luontoon monin paikoin Pohjois-Amerikassa ja uhkaa syrjäyttää paikallisia kasvilajeja.
Elefanttiheinälajikkeita ovat muun muassa 'Strictus', 'Variegatus' ja 'Zebrinus'.
Miscanthus sinensis est une espèce de plantes monocotylédones de la famille des Poaceae (Graminées), sous-famille des Panicoideae, originaire d'Asie orientale . Elle est parfois nommée « herbe à éléphant » (abusivement), « graminée géante », « eulalie » ou « roseau de Chine ».
Cette plante herbacée vivace, rhizomateuse, a été introduite dans toutes les régions tempérées, notamment en Amérique du Nord et en Europe, comme graminée ornementale. Échappée des jardins elle s'est naturalisée dans diverses régions, devenant parfois envahissante.
Il s'agit d'une plante herbacée atteignant les 4 mètres dans une région approprié. Ses feuilles ont la particularité d'avoir les bords en "dents de scie", cette plante est donc très tranchante.[1]
Elle est originaire d'Asie : Chine, Japon, Corée, Indonésie et Philippines.
Miscanthus sinensis est également reconnue comme espèce de plante envahissante.
C'est l'un des parents de l'hybride Miscanthus ×giganteus, le « miscanthus géant ». Ce dernier a été créé avec l'objectif de produire des cultures de biomasse lignocellulosique en quantité industrielle avec pour vocation de produire des agrocarburants ou un combustible renouvelable.
On l'utilise également broyé, en paillis. Malgré son excellent pouvoir isolant et couvrant, son principal défaut est une faible tenue au vent fort, surtout s'il est sec. Il peut être réutilisé en le compostant (ce qui permet d'augmenter l'apport en matière carbonée).
Dans le jeu de cartes traditionnel japonais Hanafuda, des champs de Miscanthus sinensis (susuki) sont représentés sur la série des quatre cartes du mois d'août.
Cinq à dix roseaux sont utilisés pour la décoration lors d’o-tsukimi, la version japonaise de la fête de la mi-automne[2].
Dans la Ballade de l'impossible de Haruki Murakami, une scène apparaît durant laquelle Naoko fait tourner entre ses doigts un épi de susuki.
Parmi ses noms vernaculaires, on trouve « herbe à éléphant », « graminée géante », « eulalie » ou « roseau de Chine »[3].
Le génome de cette plante a été séquencé et publié en déc. 2017 ; mis à disposition sur le site internet de Phytozome [4] ; il comprend environ 2Gb sequence en 19 chromosomes (67789 loci correspondant à 89486 transcripts)[5]
Selon Tropicos (7 octobre 2016)[6] (Attention liste brute contenant possiblement des synonymes) :
Miscanthus sinensis est une espèce de plantes monocotylédones de la famille des Poaceae (Graminées), sous-famille des Panicoideae, originaire d'Asie orientale . Elle est parfois nommée « herbe à éléphant » (abusivement), « graminée géante », « eulalie » ou « roseau de Chine ».
Cette plante herbacée vivace, rhizomateuse, a été introduite dans toutes les régions tempérées, notamment en Amérique du Nord et en Europe, comme graminée ornementale. Échappée des jardins elle s'est naturalisée dans diverses régions, devenant parfois envahissante.
Miscanthus sinensis adalah spesies tumbuhan berbunga dalam familia rumput Poaceae, asli Asia Timur di sebagian besar Cina, Jepang, Taiwan dan Korea. Ini adalah rumput perenial herba, tumbuh 0,8-2 m, jarang 4 m, membentuk gumpalan padat dari rimpang bawah tanah. Daun tingginya 18-75 cm dan lebar 0,3-2 cm. Bunga-bunga keunguan, ada di atas dedaunan. Tumbuhan ini adalah struktur yang lebih disukai untuk bersarang beberapa spesies tawon kertas, seperti Ropalidia fasciata.[1]
Zebra grass with horizontal variegations, mostly a garden plant in Japan
M. sinensis in Japan
Magnified view of M. sinensis leaf;
0 to 1 = 1mm; the saw-like edge can cut human skin.
Miscanthus sinensis adalah spesies tumbuhan berbunga dalam familia rumput Poaceae, asli Asia Timur di sebagian besar Cina, Jepang, Taiwan dan Korea. Ini adalah rumput perenial herba, tumbuh 0,8-2 m, jarang 4 m, membentuk gumpalan padat dari rimpang bawah tanah. Daun tingginya 18-75 cm dan lebar 0,3-2 cm. Bunga-bunga keunguan, ada di atas dedaunan. Tumbuhan ini adalah struktur yang lebih disukai untuk bersarang beberapa spesies tawon kertas, seperti Ropalidia fasciata.
Multimedia w Wikimedia Commons Miskant chiński (Miscanthus sinensis) – gatunek trawy należący do rodziny wiechlinowatych, zwany również trawą słoniową[3]. Naturalnie występuje w Azji. Osiąga do 3 metrów wysokości[4].
Sprowadzony został do Europy w pierwszej połowie XX wieku jako roślina ozdobna. W latach 80. XX wieku stał się jedną z ważniejszych roślin alternatywnych, którą wykorzystuje się jako odnawialny surowiec energetyczny oraz przemysłowy. Posiada wysoką wydajność w produkcji biomasy[3]. Jest rośliną nieekspansywną, kępkową[5]. Z miskantem cukrowym wytworzył spontanicznego mieszańca – Miscanthus × giganteus.
Miskant chiński to roślina wieloletnia i może być uprawiana na jednym stanowisku nawet do 20 lat. Nie ma wysokich wymagań glebowych, z powodzeniem uprawiana jest na glebach lekkich i słabo nawożonych. Miskant charakteryzuje się wysoką wrażliwością na przemarzanie w pierwszym roku od posadzenia.
Młodsze okazy wymagają zabezpieczenia przed przemrożeniem[6].
Trawę tę rozmnaża się wegetatywnie przez podział kłączy lub przy pomocy kultur tkankowych in vitro[3].
Uzyskano szereg odmian uprawnych tego gatunku, takich jak[7]:
Owoce
Łan
Owoce
M. × giganteus
Miskant chiński (Miscanthus sinensis) – gatunek trawy należący do rodziny wiechlinowatych, zwany również trawą słoniową. Naturalnie występuje w Azji. Osiąga do 3 metrów wysokości.
Sprowadzony został do Europy w pierwszej połowie XX wieku jako roślina ozdobna. W latach 80. XX wieku stał się jedną z ważniejszych roślin alternatywnych, którą wykorzystuje się jako odnawialny surowiec energetyczny oraz przemysłowy. Posiada wysoką wydajność w produkcji biomasy. Jest rośliną nieekspansywną, kępkową. Z miskantem cukrowym wytworzył spontanicznego mieszańca – Miscanthus × giganteus.
Miscanthus sinensis é uma espécie de planta com flor pertencente à família Poaceae.
A autoridade científica da espécie é Andersson, tendo sido publicada em Öfversigt af Förhandlingar: Kongl. Svenska Vetenskaps-Akademien 12: 166. 1855.[1]
Trata-se de uma espécie presente no território português, nomeadamente no Arquipélago dos Açores.
Em termos de naturalidade é introduzida na região atrás indicada.
Não se encontra protegida por legislação portuguesa ou da Comunidade Europeia.
Miscanthus sinensis é uma espécie de planta com flor pertencente à família Poaceae.
A autoridade científica da espécie é Andersson, tendo sido publicada em Öfversigt af Förhandlingar: Kongl. Svenska Vetenskaps-Akademien 12: 166. 1855.
Glansmiskantus, japanskt gräs (Miscanthus sinensis) är en art i familjen äkta gräs, tribu Andropogoneae, från Kina, Korea och Japan. Arten odlas som trädgårdsväxt i Sverige och det förekommer ett flertal sorter med varierande karaktärer.
Flerårig tuvbildande ört med korta underjordiska utlöpare vanligen blir mellan 80–200 cm höga. Dock förekommer kloner som blir så höga som 4 m i det vilda. Stråna blir 3–10 mm i diameter, de är fyllda och ogrenade, noderna är kala eller ludna. Bladen finns både som rosettblad och som stjälkblad, de är linjära och platta, 18–75 cm långa, 3–10 mm vida, blådaggiga eller ludna, med en tydlig silverfärgad mittstrimma. Bladkanterna är sträva eller släta. Vipporna blir vanligen mellan 20–35 cm med 10–40 cm långa sidoax. Varje blomma har tre ståndare.
I sitt ursprungsområde odlades glansmiskantus som foderväxt och för att ge material till flätade mattor som skydd mot blåst och insyn. I Europa odlas den som prydnadsväxt sedan 1950-talet, liksom dess släkting Miscanthus sacchariflorus.
En speciellt storvuxen sort, "elefantgräs" (Miscanthus × giganteus), en korsning med Miscanthus sacchariflorus, infördes redan 1935 från Japan via Danmark till Europa. Den kan bli fyra meter hög. Liksom de andra miscanthusarterna hör den till C4-växterna, som i varmt och torrt klimat har en effektivare fotosyntes än de mer allmänna C3-växterna. Tillväxten blir därför snabb, och alltsedan 1970-talet har det därför gjorts försök att odla Miscanthus × giganteus som energi- och materialråvara, med stort utbyte och gynnsam miljöpåverkan.
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Wikimedia Commons har media som rör Glansmiskantus.
Miscanthus sinensis beskrevs första gången 1855 av Nils Johan Andersson. Eftersom arten är mycket variabel har det senare tillkommit beskrivningar av flera underarter och arter, som numera ses som synonymer.
Glansmiskantus, japanskt gräs (Miscanthus sinensis) är en art i familjen äkta gräs, tribu Andropogoneae, från Kina, Korea och Japan. Arten odlas som trädgårdsväxt i Sverige och det förekommer ett flertal sorter med varierande karaktärer.
Miscanthus sinensis (cây chè vè) là một loài thực vật có hoa trong họ Hòa thảo. Loài này được Andersson mô tả khoa học đầu tiên năm 1855.[1]
Miscanthus sinensis (cây chè vè) là một loài thực vật có hoa trong họ Hòa thảo. Loài này được Andersson mô tả khoa học đầu tiên năm 1855.
Miscanthus sinensis Andersson, 1855
Мискантус китайский[2], или Веерник китайский[3] (лат. Miscanthus sinensis) — многолетнее травянистое растение, вид рода Мискантус (Miscanthus) семейства Злаки (Poaceae). В диком виде встречается на Дальнем Востоке
. Культивируется как декоративное растение
.
Естественный ареал вида охватывает юг Приморского края (Россия), Корейский полуостров, Китай и Японию. Здесь растение встречается вплоть до нижнего горного пояса на более или менее открытых пространствах — травянистых склонах, лесных полянах, среди кустарников. Как заносное встречается во многих странах[2].
Многолетнее травянистое растение, высотой от 0,8 до 2 м[2], иногда до 3,5 м[4]. Образует более-менее аккуратные куртины[4].
Корневища короткие, ползучие, образуют крупные, относительно рыхлые дерновины[2]. Стебли прямостоячие. Листья, расположенные в основании побегов — кожистые, чешуевидные. Стеблевые листья — линейные либо ланцетно-линейные, очень жёсткие, длинные, изогнутые, с листовым пластинками шириной от 5 до 15 мм[2].
Метёлки — длиной от 12 до 30 см. Колоски — на ножках (как и у всех представителей рода), длиной от 3 до 7 мм; с длинными шелковистыми волосками, отходящими от основания колосков и со спинки колосковых чешуй; из-за этих волосков метёлки выглядят серебристыми. Колосковые чешуи — тонкокожистые, по своей длине равны колоскам. В каждом колоске — один вполне развитый (плодущий) цветок; его нижняя цветковая чешуя на своей верхушке имеет коленчато согнутую ость длиной от 8 до 15 мм[2]. На своей родине растение цветёт в конце лета — осенью[2].
Число хромосом: 2n = 38, 40[2].
Популярное декоративное садовое растение. В парках растение рекомендуется сажать «пятнами»[2]. Хорошо смотрится в многолетних бордюрах, а также рядом с кромкой воды[4].
Засушенные соцветия-метёлки используются при создании сухих букетов[2].
Мискантус китайский называют «одним из самых красивых азиатских злаков»[4].
Растение влаголюбиво. Предпочитает плодородную, хорошо дренированную почву. Размещать растения лучше в местах с прямыми солнечными лучами. Старые омертвевшие стебли срезают на уровне земли — делают это обычно тогда, когда они сами начинают падать. Размножение — делением куртин поздней весной[4].
Морозостойкость умеренная. Зоны морозостойкости — от 4 до 10[4].
Выведено большое число сортов мискунтуса китайского, отличающихся размером растений, формой и окраской листьев[4].
Мискантус китайский, или Веерник китайский (лат. Miscanthus sinensis) — многолетнее травянистое растение, вид рода Мискантус (Miscanthus) семейства Злаки (Poaceae). В диком виде встречается на Дальнем Востоке. Культивируется как декоративное растение.
中國芒（學名：Miscanthus sinensis）通常和其他類似植物合稱為芒草，是一種禾本科植物，源產於亞洲東部，可見於中國大陸、台灣、朝鮮半島、日本。有許多不同的變種。例如北台灣有可以耐重金屬的「白背芒」（學名：Miscanthus sinensis var. glaber），東海岸則有可抗鹽的「八丈芒」[1]。
中國芒的高度約0.8到2公尺，少數可達4公尺，具有地下莖。中國芒的葉長約18到75公分，寬約0.3到2公分。帶有紫色的花。
傳統上，芒草是飼養動物的牧草及用於建造房屋及紙張的材料。近年有研究著手以芒草生產可再生能源作物，英國和歐盟科學家把中國芒和蔗芒人工雜交，於歐洲東北部大量種植，供應局部地區發電廠直接燃燒使用，並同時研究把芒草發酵為酒精作燃料乙醇使用[2]。
中國芒（學名：Miscanthus sinensis）通常和其他類似植物合稱為芒草，是一種禾本科植物，源產於亞洲東部，可見於中國大陸、台灣、朝鮮半島、日本。有許多不同的變種。例如北台灣有可以耐重金屬的「白背芒」（學名：Miscanthus sinensis var. glaber），東海岸則有可抗鹽的「八丈芒」。
中國芒的高度約0.8到2公尺，少數可達4公尺，具有地下莖。中國芒的葉長約18到75公分，寬約0.3到2公分。帶有紫色的花。
傳統上，芒草是飼養動物的牧草及用於建造房屋及紙張的材料。近年有研究著手以芒草生產可再生能源作物，英國和歐盟科學家把中國芒和蔗芒人工雜交，於歐洲東北部大量種植，供應局部地區發電廠直接燃燒使用，並同時研究把芒草發酵為酒精作燃料乙醇使用。
ススキ（芒、薄、Miscanthus sinensis）とは、イネ科ススキ属の植物。尾花ともいい秋の七草の一つ。また茅（かや。「萱」とも書く）と呼ばれる有用植物の主要な一種。 野原に生息し、ごく普通に見られる多年生草本である。
高さは1から2m。地下には短いがしっかりした地下茎がある。そこから多数の花茎を立てる。葉は細長く、根出葉と稈からの葉が多数つく。また、ケイ酸を多く含むため堅く、縁は鋭い鉤状になっているため、皮膚が傷つくことがある。
夏から秋にかけて茎の先端に長さ20から30cm程度の十数本に分かれた花穂をつける。花穂は赤っぽい色をしているが、種子（正しくは穎果・えいか）には白い毛が生えて、穂全体が白っぽくなる。種子は風によって飛ぶことができる。
日本には全国に分布し、日当たりの良い山野に生息している。
夏緑性で、地上部は冬には枯れるのが普通であるが、沖縄などでは常緑になり、高さは5mに達する。その形ゆえに、たまにサトウキビと勘違いする観光客がいる。国外では朝鮮半島・中国・台湾に分布するほか、北米では侵略的外来種として猛威をふるっている（日本にセイタカアワダチソウが侵入したのと逆の経路で伝播）。
植物遷移の上から見れば、ススキ草原は草原としてはほぼ最後の段階に当たる。ススキは株が大きくなるには時間がかかるので、初期の草原では姿が見られないが、次第に背が高くなり、全体を覆うようになる。ススキ草原を放置すれば、アカマツなどの先駆者（パイオニア）的な樹木が侵入して、次第に森林へと変化していく。後述の茅場の場合、草刈りや火入れを定期的に行うことで、ススキ草原の状態を維持していたものである。
本州南部以南の海岸線には、葉の幅が広く、ざらつきの少ないものがあり、これをハチジョウススキ（M. condensatus Hack.）という。変種と見なす立場もある。
同属の別種もいくつかある。やや華奢な植物で、水辺に生えて、綿毛が純白のものにオギ（荻、M. sacchariforus (Maxim.) Benth.）がある。ススキよりさらに大きく、堤防などに大きな株を作るものにトキワススキ（M. floridulus (Labill.) Warb.）がある。他にもカリヤス（苅安、M. tinctorius Hack.）、カリヤスモドキ（M. oligostachyus）など数種が知られるが、多くない。
ススキはイネ科の代表のひとつと見なされているから、ススキの名を持つ植物は多く、たとえば以下のようなものはさほどススキに似ておらず、分類上も近くはないがその名を持っている。
かつては「茅」（かや）と呼ばれ、農家で茅葺（かやぶき）屋根の材料に用いたり、家畜の餌として利用することが多かった。そのため集落の近くに定期的に刈り入れをするススキ草原があり、これを茅場（かやば）と呼んでいた。現在では、そのような利用がされないので、その多くは遷移が進んで、雑木林となっている。そのため、ススキ草原に生育していた植物には、かつて普通種であったが、現在は稀少になっているものがある。また、カヤネズミなども同様に見かけにくくなっている。
また、未成熟の穂を食用とする地域もある。
東京・雑司ヶ谷鬼子母神では、ススキの穂をミミズクの姿に作った「すすきみみずく」が有名。
![[icon]](http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%95%E3%82%A1%E3%82%A4%E3%83%AB:Wiki_letter_w_cropped.svg){kind=small}
十五夜の月見には、ハギ（萩）とともにススキを飾ることが多い。 花札では、八月、すなわち旧暦8月、新暦の感覚で秋に相当する時節に用いられている。 沖縄地方には、ススキの葉を環のように結んで魔除けとする風習がある。
日本語では、ススキの穂は、それを動物の尾に見立てて尾花（おばな）と呼ぶことがあり、ススキ自体もそのように呼ばれることがある。この「尾花」はススキおよびススキの穂を意味する古名であり、奈良時代初期の歌人・山上憶良が『万葉集』（巻八 1538）にて「萩の花 尾花 葛花 撫子の花 女郎花 また 藤袴 朝顔の花」と詠んだように、古来、秋の七草の一つに数えられている。 また、馬の毛色で尾花栗毛（おばなくりげ）というのは、栗毛馬や栃栗毛馬であることに加えて鬣（たてがみ）や尾の長毛が白色のものを指す。この白毛は遠目には金色に輝いて見えるため、その特徴を秋のススキの穂になぞられて呼ばれたものである。
枯れすすき（枯薄、花も穂も枯れたススキ）には枯れ尾花/枯尾花（かれおばな）という呼称（古名）もあり、現代でも「幽霊の正体見たり枯尾花」という諺はよく知られている。これは江戸時代中期の国学者で俳人の横井也有が俳文集『鶉衣』の中で「一年松木淡々己れ高ぶり 人を慢（あなど）ると伝へ聞き 初めて対面して化物（ばけもの）の正躰見たり枯れ尾花 其（そ）の誠心なること大概この類なり」と述べたうちの「化物の正躰見たり枯尾花」が世に広まりつつ変化したものであるが、これは「疑心暗鬼に陥った心境下では風になびく枯れ尾花のような何でもないものも怪しげに思え、幽霊のようなただならないものと見間違えてしまう」ということから、「恐怖心や猜疑心があると、何でもないものでも、怖ろしげなもの、怪しげなものに思えてしまう」ということを意味する譬えとなっている。さらには、やはりススキの穂にまつわる類義語として「落武者は薄の穂にも怖（お）ず」 (cf. wikt) があるが、こちらは「落武者は捕まることを警戒し、怯えているためススキの穂にも恐怖する」ということから転じて先の諺と同じ意味で用いられる。 また、江戸時代中期の俳人・与謝蕪村は「狐火の 燃えつくばかり 枯尾花」と詠んでいるが、こちらは、夜の野原にて風に揺らめく枯尾花の情景を、怪しく燃え盛るこの世のものならぬ狐火に譬えた俳句である。
穂についている葯
実の部分の拡大
葉の縁の鋭い鉤状の拡大（目盛りの 0-1 は1ミリメートル長）。不用意に触れると手足を切ることがある。
斑入り品種
鷹羽薄（たかのはすすき）、矢羽薄（やはね－）
斑入り品種
矢筈薄（やはず－）。虎斑薄（とらふ－）とも呼ばれる。
砥峰高原ススキ大群生
曽爾高原のススキ群生
箱根仙石原のススキ野
ススキ（芒、薄、Miscanthus sinensis）とは、イネ科ススキ属の植物。尾花ともいい秋の七草の一つ。また茅（かや。「萱」とも書く）と呼ばれる有用植物の主要な一種。 野原に生息し、ごく普通に見られる多年生草本である。
참억새는 한반도 전역에서 자라는 여러해살이풀로 높이는 1-2m이다. 줄기는 원기둥 모양이고 약간 굵다. 잎은 길이 40~70cm의 줄 모양으로, 너비 1~2cm이며 끝은 차차로 뾰족해진다. 가운데맥은 굵고 흰색이며 기부는 긴 잎집으로 되고 긴 털이 있다. 가을 무렵에 줄기 끝에서 산방꽃차례를 이루어 작은 이삭이 빽빽이 달린다. 작은이삭은 길이 5~7mm이고 긴 자루 및 짧은 자루를 가진 것이 쌍으로 달리며, 길이 7~12mm의 털이 다발로 나고 끝에 8~15mm의 가락이 있다. 턱겨는 약간 단단하고 끝이 뾰족하며 안겨는 끝이 2개로 갈라진다. 참억새의 작은이삭이 노랑을 띠는 것에 대해 억새(Miscanthus sinensis var. purpurascens)는 자줏빛이다.
관리법 : 항상 양지인 곳에 심는다.
번식법 : 이른 봄 새싹이 올라올 때 포기나누기를 한다.[1]
참억새는 한반도 전역에서 자라는 여러해살이풀로 높이는 1-2m이다. 줄기는 원기둥 모양이고 약간 굵다. 잎은 길이 40~70cm의 줄 모양으로, 너비 1~2cm이며 끝은 차차로 뾰족해진다. 가운데맥은 굵고 흰색이며 기부는 긴 잎집으로 되고 긴 털이 있다. 가을 무렵에 줄기 끝에서 산방꽃차례를 이루어 작은 이삭이 빽빽이 달린다. 작은이삭은 길이 5~7mm이고 긴 자루 및 짧은 자루를 가진 것이 쌍으로 달리며, 길이 7~12mm의 털이 다발로 나고 끝에 8~15mm의 가락이 있다. 턱겨는 약간 단단하고 끝이 뾰족하며 안겨는 끝이 2개로 갈라진다. 참억새의 작은이삭이 노랑을 띠는 것에 대해 억새(Miscanthus sinensis var. purpurascens)는 자줏빛이다.
