Take a look at the comparison chart at Bluestem. Not only is he a "real gardener" specializing in cold climate grasses, but he quotes his northern customers in a lot of his hardiness information.

Here is a link that might be useful: Bluestem

Miscanthus sinensis Purpurascens has survived 3 years in my zone 2b garden. It has no extra winter protection however it is planted in front of my south-facing home where the snow melts and ground warms earlier. M. sinensis Blutenwunder is also in its third year and is blooming for the first time this year. This one is planted in an unprotected area and aside from snowfall, no winter protec tion. Another Miscanthus, I'm pretty sure it's Malepartus (lost tag) is also chugging along planted near the house foundation. It hasn't bloomed, but isn't in the best location either and needs to be moved next year.

I have customers in Zone 4, that have almost no snow cover, and the Huron series does well for them with no added protection.

Look at Walters Gardens website for some nice pics of them.

Bluestem is a great resource...thanks for the reminder, Donn.

Pudge, that's the kind of info I'm after! I'll add those to my list.

Polly, I was wondering about the Huron series. I just picked up Huron Sunrise...love the burgundy plumes! Sounds like these are a good bet...are there just 3 different varieties?