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AquaticGrass LikeBogs

Glyceria maxima var. variegata (v)

variegated reed sweet-grass

A strong-growing rhizomatous perennial forming extensive stands of narrowly strap-shaped leaves striped with cream and sometimes tinged with pink, and with purplish-green flowering panicles in late summer

Synonyms
Glyceria spectabilis 'Variegata'
Glyceria aquatica variegata
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Green Pink
Summer Green Purple Cream Green Pink
Autumn Cream Green Pink
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Poaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Suckering
Genus

Glyceria are vigorous, spreading, moisture-loving or aquatic, rhizomatous perennial grasses, with narrowly strap-shaped leaves and green or purple-tinged flowering panicles in late summer

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any reliably moist, fertile soil or in water up to 15cm deep, in full sun. Divide every few years to prevent congestion; has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Leaves can be cut back when they die off in late autumn

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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