noun
Japanese silver grass; Miscanthus sinensis
A tall perennial grass with feathery plumes, common in Japanese autumn landscapes. Often associated with the moon-viewing season.
秋になると、ススキの穂が風に揺れる。
In autumn, the plumes of Japanese silver grass sway in the wind.
お月見にはススキを飾ります。
We decorate with susuki grass for moon viewing.
Kanji spelling is rare and may be confused with other readings such as うす; lists it a high priority but the word is usually written in kana.
The origin is uncertain. The kanji 薄 is used for its meaning 'thin' or 'pampas grass', but the word itself is likely a native Japanese term.