“Bamboo” (giant miscanthus)

Miscanthus x giganteus. Giant miscanthus is a species of grass, growing to 10 ft tall. Late in the fall, it forms its tassels that add to its aesthetic value. It produces bamboo-like stems, that can be used just like bamboo – for stakes, supports, and markers around the garden, or for crafts. The entire plant dies back to the ground, only to regrow the following year. It is hardy to zone 4.

This grass grows in a clump that slowly expands, similar to how a hosta patch grows. It does not “run” and will not take over a space. That said, its rhizomes are very hard to dig up – be very certain about where you want to plant it!