Milium effusum 'Aureum' GOLDEN WOOD MILLET forms a loose clump of foliage with leaf blades that are 12 in. long and 1/4 to 1/2 in. wide. Stands out among garden plants as it begins with a bright yellow color in spring, becoming yellow green as the season continues and returns to bright yellow in the fall. A graceful accent for the shade garden, valuable to brighten up a dark area, rock garden, fern planting, woodland gardens or any perennial shade garden. Cool, moist, fertile soil in light shade is best. Self sows mildly.

Miscanthus sinensis Many cultivars with various heights, habits and flowering seasons provide an excellent contrast break against solid, broader leaved specimen plants. This is group of plants is especially noted for the inspiring rosy, tan or silver toned plumes that seem to greet as they wave and ride the wind. Royal, with an ancient presence, they grow upwards with power and strength. Many cultivars, e.g. M. 'Gracillimus', have blades arching near the top. Foliage color ranges from soft and light to dark greens, and some are variegated. Some change color tones in autumn, for example M. 'Adagio' blushes reddish, while others hold or deepen a blue tone, before fading to soft browns.

Molinia arundinacea 'Skyracer' MOOR GRASS Although slow growing and not showy in winter, moor grasses are well worth growing for their rich autumn colors and beautiful flowers. Prefer rich soil and moist conditions and look wonderful along the border's edge, in meadows and by water. When established, they bloom profusely atop tall stems (inflorescence to 8 ft. tall for M.c. 'Skyracer') that gently screen and accent plants behind them. At home in the light shade, full sun, damp or peaty places and acid soil, but tolerant of neutral soil. Clumps form stiffly and spread in an upright manner. Autumn turns leaf blades a clear gold color that captures and reflects warmth from the sun. Molina c. 'Variegata' offers green leaves with creamy yellow-white linear stripes. This slow growing clump former takes a few seasons to establish well. Over time it is much more stable in the border when compared to many other grasses that can grow out of bounds. Arching pale yellow stems with tiny purple flowers appear in summer and are held above the foliage. Grows and flowers best in climates with cool summers but these demands can be approximated in moist conditions and partial shade.

Muhlenbergia capillaris MUHLY GRASS, HAIRYAWN MUHLY This exciting South Eastern U.S. native grass is new on the scene. During the growing season it forms a 2 - 3 ft. clump of slender green foliage. In the autumn, clouds of delicate pink-purple flowers create a glittering haze of color. Prefers sandy or rocky soil and good drainage. Drought tolerant but best with some summer moisture.

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