Phalaris arundinacea var. picta ‘Picta’ (Ribbon Grass)

A popular favorite since the Victorian era, Phalaris arundinacea var. picta ‘Picta’ (Ribbon Grass) is a vigorous perennial grass boasting narrow, arching leaves boldly striped with white, pale and dark green, up to 12 in. long (30 cm). Panicles of pale green flowers bloom well above the foliage in early summer but present little interest. The flat variegated blades are attractive from spring to early summer, but may become sun-scorched in mid-summer in hot summer areas. If this happens, simply mow this plant to the ground, lightly fertilize and irrigate, and fresh new growth will emerge within 2 weeks. Ribbon Grass can spread quickly to form an extensive colony. Choose a site where this grass can wander freely, or plant in tubs and containers.

• Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall (60-120 cm) and 2-5 ft. across (60-150 cm). Extremely invasive spreader that is difficult to eradicate once established.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in dry to wet, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant.
• This architectural grass is highly versatile. It may be grown at the edge of a pond or water garden, in boggy areas, along streams or ponds where it may help control soil erosion on moist banks.
• Generally disease and pest free.
• To keep the variegation, cut down all but the new young shoots in early summer to encourage fresh growth.
• Divide from mid-spring to midsummer.
• Phalaris arundinacea species is native to North America, Europe, Asia and North Africa.
• Find where Phalaris arundinacea species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.