Description of Phalaris arundinacea var picta (Gardener's Garters)

Phalaris arundinacea var. picta is ribbon grass, also called gardener’s garters. It’s a wetland grass with striped leaves and a strong spreading habit. It gives quick cover and bright foliage, but it needs containment.

Appearance

It forms arching leaves with green and cream striping. Stems can reach 60 to 120cm and may produce flower heads in summer. The plant spreads by runners and can form a large patch if left alone.

Care Guide

It is very easy. The work is stopping it from taking over.

• Sun: Full sun to part shade.
• Soil: Moist to wet soil. It also grows in baskets with aquatic compost.
• Water: Boggy ground suits it well.
• Control: Use a solid pot or barrier. Trim runners several times in the season.
• Cut back: Cut down in late winter for fresh spring growth.

If foliage becomes tired, a hard cut back in summer often brings fresh striped leaves.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This suits bog gardens as a bright foliage plant for the edges, especially where you want quick coverage. It works well as a backdrop behind flowering marginals.

In small bog gardens, only use it if you can fully contain it in a pot sunk into the bed.

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