Glyceria maxima var. variegata
variegated reed sweet-grass
Quickly spreading by underground rhizomes to form a generous clump of slender variegated foliage, which often emerges in spring with a pink flush. Then, in midsummer, tall stems appear, and these are topped with open clusters of purple-flushed green spikelets. Glyceria maxima var. variegata is a great option for bog gardens or softening the edges of larger ponds where quick cover is desired.
How to care for Glyceria maxima var. variegata:
To prevent this plant spreading too vigorously, it is advisable to pot it up (using aquatic compost) into a pond basket. Then, lift and divide the plant as necessary. In late winter, pop on a pair of tough gloves, and comb through the plant in late winter to remove any dead foliage.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
2.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil / Reliably damp or boggy
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This pond plant is semi-evergreen, so it can lose some of its foliage in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose it all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
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CAUTION toxic if eaten/skin & eye irritant
