Bulk supplies of Miscanthus x giganteus rhizomes for commercial purposes are available.

Miscanthus is a dependable grass that captivates attention for an extended duration. In the early summer, cascades of foliage sprout, leading to the emergence of pink floral plumes by the end of the season. As winter nears, these transition to hues of tawny beige. The taller variety, Miscanthus x Giganteus, is apt for the rear of garden borders or as hedging.

Miscanthus x Giganteus

Common name: Elephant Grass, Giante Miscanthus

Retail delivery options:

Standart: from 12,95€

Named day: from 18,95€

Retail Prices

Commercial Wholesale

Loam

Chalk

Sand

Clay

Growing conditions:

Moisture:
Prefers moisture but needs well-drained soil.

pH:
Tolerates Acidic, Alkaline, and Neutral pH levels.

Miscanthus can reach up to three and half meters in height, acting as an efficient barrier against wind and noise. It boasts durable stems and slender long leaves. Once it's established, it demands minimal maintenance. Impressively, it has the capacity to store carbon dioxide, even up to six times more than a forest. Additionally, it helps in purifying water resources and reducing nitrogen in the soil.

Environmental Impact:

Position:

Aspect: Can face South, North, West, or East.

Exposure: Can be either in exposed or sheltered locations.

Full sun

Height: Ranges between 2.5 to 3.5 meters.

Spread: Spreads out between 1.5 to 2 meters.

Size:

Spring

Summer

Winter

Autumn

Stem

Foliage

Flower

Mulch

When using it as a decorative element in gardens, it's advisable to trim it down late in winter, just before the onset of new foliage.

Garden Care:

Use Miscanthus mulch (trimmed and shreded biomass) to enrich the soil with nutrients. It helps retain soil moisture, reduce weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. In areas prone to erosion, Miscanthus mulch can stabilize the soil. Additionally, its unique texture enhances garden aesthetics, and it might deter certain pests.

Clusters of curving green foliage, transition to warm shades of orange during fall. During the late summer to fall period, delicate blossoms emerge in pink colour. This variety grows up to a height of 3.6 meters (12 feet).

Hedge row establishment:

We suggest the following planting pattern to establish a hedge row/screen. The individual rhizomes should be planted in a double line. Each line would be 50cm apart with the rhizomes planted down these lines also 50cm apart staggered (See diagram no1). 199 rhizomes are used per 100x0,5 meteres hedge. Planting a third line of rhizomes on the hedge row will provide thicker screen coverage at a faster pace. This uses 299 rhizomes per 100m2.

100cm

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About Miscanthus

InTRODUCTIOn

Originating from Asia, Miscanthus X Giganteus is a formidable "woody" perennial grass, boasting a yearly growth of at least 10 feet once established. It emerges from a natural cross between miscanthus sacchariflorus and miscanthus sinensis, resulting in a sterile triploid grass — possessing three sets of chromosomes and eliminating concerns over invasiveness due to its lack of viable seeds and underground runners. Furthermore, it robustly withstands temperatures down to -20°C.

As a prospective biomass crop, miscanthus offers substantial dry stems, usable as fuel for heat and electricity or convertible to ethanol. Notably, its photosynthetic mechanism is seemingly more adapted to low temperatures compared to other C4 crops, ensuring high productivity even in cooler conditions.

During the first frost, miscanthus undergoes a two-week process, withdrawing nutrients from above ground to the rhizomes below, preparing for the subsequent year's growth. Concurrently, it transitions through shades until it settles into a golden brown hue, which it retains from winter through to the next spring's growth.

Miscanthus demonstrates notable aspects in both its growth and propagation methods. Each year, it produces new stalks, with each one typically measuring around 3/8" in diameter and forming clusters that spread approximately 6cm on average. When it comes to propagation, Miscanthus employs a unique approach due to its inherent sterility. Instead of relying on seeds, propagation is achieved through rhizome division, wherein pieces of the root, or rhizomes, which are roughly 6cm in length, are planted to cultivate new growth. This method ensures a continuation of its robust and reliable growth cycle year after year.

Miscanthus x Giganteus showcases efficient and high-yielding growth characteristics, attributed in part to its capability for C4 photosynthesis. The species excels by efficiently utilizing available resources, demonstrating rapid growth even under conditions with limited nutrients. Additionally, it exhibits a notable resilience to pests and diseases, which further solidifies its capacity to provide consistent yields year after year. Particularly impressive is its potential yield: upon reaching peak maturity, which typically occurs around its fourth year, Miscanthus X Giganteus is capable of producing up to 28 tons of dry material per hectare. It’s noteworthy that each year, reports indicate even higher yield potentials, underscoring its remarkable proficiency as a biomass producer.

planting & CARE

Plant rhizomes horizontally, 10-15cm deep, ensuring no part protrudes above the soil. If the rhizome displays new growth, such as a pink shoot or grass blade, it may be planted slightly above ground in shallower soil with an inch of soil atop. Although a well-tilled bed accelerates root establishment, it isn’t mandatory. Ideal planting conditions involve moist, warm soil at an average ground temperature of 15C degrees, with conscientious avoidance of over-watering and meticulous attention to combating weeds during the first year. Maintain a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5.

In the first year, a rhizome typically produces 5-15+ stalks, reaching 50-120cm. The second year sees an increase to an average of 20-45 stalks, extending to 120-200cm. By the third year, expect clusters to span 50-100cm in diameter, containing approximately 75-150 stalks that reach full height (300cm+). During the fourth year, rhizomes planted 33cm apart should mesh into each other, with the speed of spread varying according to soil type.

Miscanthus X Giganteus boasts efficient nutrient use and has the ability to draw nutrients back down to the rhizomes post-growing season, minimizing fertilizer demands. However, a yearly fertilization routine, commencing about three weeks post-planting with a "triple" fertilizer, encourages further rhizome and stalk growth. At the same fertilization point, apply a spray-based herbicide to curtail new weed seed germination. Suitable herbicides include Dual, Atrazine, and 2,4-D.

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F.A.Q.

Miscanthus x giganteus, commonly known as giant miscanthus, is a large perennial grass cultivated for various purposes, including as a bioenergy crop and for its ornamental qualities. Here are some key characteristics and uses of Miscanthus x giganteus:

- Size: Miscanthus x giganteus is known for its impressive size, typically reaching heights of 8 to 12 feet (2.4 to 3.7 meters) or even taller under optimal growing conditions. Its large, feathery plumes can add to its overall height.

- Appearance: This grass has long, slender green leaves and arches. The leaves may turn yellow in the fall, creating an attractive display of autumn foliage.

- Rhizomatous Growth: Miscanthus x giganteus grows from underground rhizomes, horizontal stems that can spread and produce new shoots. This growth habit makes it a prolific and robust plant.

- Cold-Hardy: It is relatively cold-hardy and can tolerate various climates, making it suitable for cultivation in multiple regions.

- Bioenergy Crop: One of the primary uses of Miscanthus x giganteus is as a biomass crop. It is considered a promising feedstock for bioenergy production, particularly for biofuel and bioelectricity generation. Its high biomass yield, rapid growth rate, and low input requirements make it an attractive option for renewable energy production.

- Carbon Sequestration: Miscanthus x giganteus has the potential to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere due to its robust growth and high biomass production. This makes it an environmentally beneficial crop.

- Ornamental Plant: Besides its utility as a bioenergy crop, Miscanthus x giganteus is sometimes grown as an ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes. Its tall, graceful plumes and attractive foliage can enhance the visual appeal of gardens.

- Low Maintenance: Once established, Miscanthus x giganteus is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive with minimal care, making it suitable for sustainable landscaping.

It's worth noting that while Miscanthus x giganteus has many desirable qualities, it is not native to all regions, and its cultivation and management should be carried out carefully to prevent it from becoming invasive in specific ecosystems. It is essential to consider local regulations and best practices when growing this grass.

First-generation rhizomes of Miscanthus x giganteus are grown from in vitro disease-free seedlings and represent the best characteristics of this plant. These rhizomes offer several advantages compared to second-generation rhizomes:

Genetic Purity: First-generation rhizomes are derived from carefully selected, disease-free seedlings. This ensures a high level of gene purity, meaning that the resulting plants will closely resemble the desired traits of Miscanthus x giganteus. This genetic uniformity is essential for maintaining the quality and consistency of the crop.

Disease-Free: The in vitro propagation process used to produce first-generation rhizomes helps eliminate the risk of diseases or pathogens that can affect the plant. This is crucial for the health and productivity of the crop, as it reduces the need for pesticides or disease management.

Better Performance: First-generation rhizomes exhibit superior growth and performance characteristics compared to second-generation rhizomes. They are more likely to achieve the expected height, biomass yield, and other desirable traits associated with Miscanthus x giganteus.

Consistency: Because first-generation rhizomes are genetically identical, they provide a high degree of consistency in growth, appearance, and overall performance. This consistency is valuable for both research and commercial cultivation purposes.

Quality Assurance: When using first-generation rhizomes, growers can have greater confidence in the quality and performance of their Miscanthus x giganteus crop. This can lead to higher yields and better returns on investment.

It's important to note that while first-generation rhizomes offer numerous advantages, they can be more expensive to produce and acquire than second-generation rhizomes, typically propagated from field-grown plants. Growers should weigh the benefits of genetic purity and disease resistance against the cost when choosing between first and second-generation rhizomes for their specific cultivation needs.

Cultivating Miscanthus, particularly Miscanthus x giganteus clone Illinois, can offer several environmental benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:

Carbon Sequestration: Miscanthus is a fast-growing perennial grass that can capture and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process, known as carbon sequestration, helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Renewable Energy Production: Miscanthus can be used as a feedstock for bioenergy production, including the generation of biofuels (such as ethanol) and bioelectricity. Using Miscanthus as a bioenergy crop can reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a more sustainable energy mix.

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The cultivation of Miscanthus for bioenergy production can lead to lower greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuel alternatives. The carbon released when Miscanthus is burned for energy is offset by the carbon sequestered during its growth.

Reduced Soil Erosion: Miscanthus has an extensive root system that helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion. This can be especially beneficial in areas where soil erosion is a concern, helping to protect valuable topsoil and maintain soil health.

Reduced Chemical Inputs: Miscanthus typically requires fewer chemical inputs, such as pesticides and fertilizers, than other crops. This can reduce the environmental impact associated with conventional agriculture.

Biodiversity Support: Miscanthus can provide habitat and food sources for wildlife, including birds and insects. Miscanthus's tall, dense growth can create suitable conditions for wildlife to thrive.

Water Quality Improvement: Miscanthus can help improve water quality by reducing nutrient runoff into water bodies. Its deep root system can absorb excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can otherwise contribute to water pollution.

Sustainable Land Use: Miscanthus can be grown on marginal or abandoned agricultural land, providing an alternative land use option that can help restore and rejuvenate degraded areas.

Reduced Soil Disturbance: Unlike annual crops that require regular tilling and replanting, Miscanthus is a perennial crop that minimizes soil disturbance. This can help maintain soil structure and reduce soil erosion.

- Long-Term Sustainability: Once established, Miscanthus can persist for several years without replanting. This long-term sustainability reduces the frequency of land preparation and planting, further contributing to environmental benefits.

Miscanthus is crucial in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels primarily through carbon sequestration. This involves capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere within the plant's biomass and the soil. Here's an explanation of how Miscanthus contributes to carbon sequestration, along with an estimation of its potential CO2 sequestration capacity:

Carbon Storage in Roots: Miscanthus possesses an extensive root system that can penetrate deep into the soil. This underground carbon storage is a fundamental aspect of carbon sequestration.

Long-Term Growth: Miscanthus is a perennial crop that can persist for up to 25 years without replanting. This prolonged growth period allows for continuous carbon accumulation within the above-ground biomass and the soil.

Biomass Carbon Sequestration: A significant portion of the sequestered carbon is stored in the above-ground biomass of the Miscanthus plant, including its leaves, stems, and other plant parts.

Bioenergy and Carbon Balance: When Miscanthus is utilized for bioenergy production, such as biofuels or bioelectricity, the carbon stored in its biomass is eventually released into the atmosphere during combustion. However, the net impact can still be a reduction in CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuel use. This is because the carbon released during combustion is counterbalanced by the carbon sequestered during growth.

Variable Sequestration Rates: Miscanthus's amount of CO2 sequestered can fluctuate significantly based on local environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and the specific bioenergy conversion processes employed. On average, Miscanthus is estimated to sequester approximately 3 to 6 tons of CO2 per hectare per year, with the potential for even higher sequestration rates under ideal circumstances.

In summary, Miscanthus is a valuable tool for mitigating climate change by capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Its long-term growth, robust root system, and ability to offset carbon emissions through bioenergy production make it an environmentally beneficial crop for sequestering CO2 and reducing the overall carbon footprint.

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Gallery

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