Red Chief Maiden Ornamental Grasses (Miscanthus Sinensis Red Chief)

Red Chief Maiden Ornamental Grasses Description

Red Chief Maiden Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds vibrant colour and texture to any garden. Known for its narrow, arching green leaves that transition to rich shades of red and burgundy in late summer and autumn, this grass offers a dramatic display of colour throughout the growing season. In late summer, it produces feathery flower plumes in shades of coppery red that rise above the foliage, gradually fading to soft beige or tan as the season progresses. These plumes add further visual interest and contrast against the deep foliage tones.

The plant grows in a dense, upright clump, typically reaching a height of 1.2 to 1.5 metres (4 to 5 feet) and spreading to around 1 metre (3 feet). Red Chief is an excellent choice for adding movement, structure, and seasonal colour to borders, flower beds, or as a feature plant in larger landscapes. Its dramatic red tones are particularly eye catching when placed against contrasting foliage or in mixed planting schemes.

Pruning Advice

When to Prune: Prune Red Chief in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This will help prevent damage to new shoots and encourage fresh, healthy growth.

How to Prune: Cut back the foliage to around 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) above the ground using sharp secateurs or shears. Removing old growth ensures that the plant has room to develop fresh, vibrant shoots for the new season.

Additional Tip: It is a good idea to leave the dried foliage and plumes over the winter for added texture and winter interest. If preferred, the foliage can be cut back earlier in the winter for a tidier appearance, especially if the dried leaves have become unattractive.

Further Information

Seasonal Interest: The dramatic red and burgundy foliage in autumn, combined with feathery coppery plumes, makes Red Chief a standout feature throughout the year, especially in the autumn months.

Low Maintenance: Once established, it is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care.

Drought Tolerant: Very adaptable to dry conditions once established, making it ideal for gardens with low water availability.

Wildlife Friendly: The flower plumes provide shelter for birds and insects, offering habitat through the winter months.

Versatile: Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including cottage, prairie, contemporary, and wildlife gardens. It can be used in borders, containers, or as a specimen plant.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.