Troubleshooting
little silver spider grass problems — and how to fix them
little silver spider grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Kleine Silberspinne') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Miscanthus blight
Leptosphaeria miscanthi causes tan lesions with brown margins in warm, wet weather. Ensure good spacing and airflow; remove and dispose of infected leaves. 'Kleine Silberspinne' shows moderate susceptibility — monitor in humid summers.
Failure to flower
Insufficient sun is the most common cause. Site in full sun; shaded plants produce vegetative growth but few plumes. Late-season cold snaps can also abort developing inflorescences.
Winter crown rot
Persistently wet, cold soils can rot the crown. Ensure good drainage; in heavy clay gardens, plant on a slight mound. Leave old culms standing until late winter to protect the crown.
Prevent little silver spider grass problems before they start
Most little silver spider grass issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for little silver spider grass in general rather than its problems? Read the full little silver spider grass care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
little silver spider grass problems — FAQ
Why is my little silver spider grass miscanthus blight?
Leptosphaeria miscanthi causes tan lesions with brown margins in warm, wet weather. Ensure good spacing and airflow; remove and dispose of infected leaves. 'Kleine Silberspinne' shows moderate susceptibility — monitor in humid summers.
Why is my little silver spider grass failure to flower?
Insufficient sun is the most common cause. Site in full sun; shaded plants produce vegetative growth but few plumes. Late-season cold snaps can also abort developing inflorescences.
Why is my little silver spider grass winter crown rot?
Persistently wet, cold soils can rot the crown. Ensure good drainage; in heavy clay gardens, plant on a slight mound. Leave old culms standing until late winter to protect the crown.