Description of Glyceria maxima var. variegata (Variegated Reed Sweet Grass)

Glyceria maxima var. variegata is variegated reed sweet-grass. It gives the same tall, arching habit as the green form, but with cream striping that brightens pond edges.

Appearance

Leaves are long and ribbon-like with pale stripes. It forms a broad clump and sends up airy grass flowers in summer. Height is often 1 to 1.5m, sometimes more in very wet, fertile spots.

Care Guide

It needs wet soil and good light for the best striping.

• Sun: Full sun to light shade.
• Soil: Wet soil or aquatic compost.
• Water: Keep saturated or in shallow margins.
• Control: Contain it in a basket if space is limited. Divide to manage spread.
• Cut back: Cut old leaves down in late winter.

If it turns more green than striped, it often wants more light.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This suits bog gardens and pond edges where you want height and leaf colour. It can be too strong for small bog beds unless you contain it.

Use it as a backdrop behind flowering plants.

FAQ