What's eating my ferner osten maiden grass?

Miscanthus sinensis 'Ferner Osten' is generally trouble-free in the garden. Miscanthus mealybug is the most damaging pest, concealed inside leaf sheaths and causing stunted, discolored growth. Aphids are a minor occasional pest, and rust can emerge in wet, crowded conditions.

Distorted and dwarfed shoots with red-stained sheaths; malformed or tangled flower plumes; waxy insects visible deep in leaf sheaths when separated Cut out infested stems and burn them; apply systemic insecticide at early spring bud break; remove badly infested clumps to prevent spread to neighboring plants

Colonies on new spring growth leaving sticky honeydew and mild distortion of young leaves Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; dislodge with a strong water jet; encourage natural predators

Orange to brown pustules on leaf blades; most prevalent after wet weather or in dense plantings Remove infected foliage; improve airflow by thinning overcrowded clumps; apply a systemic fungicide if rust is widespread