Phalaris arundinacea Picta

Phalaris arundinacea 'Picta', also known as Variegated Reed Canary Grass, is a spreading perennial plant that grows along riverbanks or on the edges of ponds. This tall grass with broad, striped leaves vertically striped in white resembles reeds. It produces large, feathery inflorescences from spring to summer. It is a bright, somewhat wild, and astonishing plant.

Phalaris arundinacea belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to the entire Northern Hemisphere. 'Picta' is a variegated form. This ornamental grass can reach 60cm (24in) in height and theoretically spreads indefinitely. It forms small clumps of narrow basal leaves, 60cm (24in) long, from which thin, erect stems emerge from June to September. These stems can reach a height of 120 to 150cm (47 to 59in) and are topped with feathery inflorescences of tiny flowers that turn silver when mature. The flowers form elongated, spreading panicles (5 to 25 cm (2 to 10in)) that are initially greenish-white and then become whitish to purplish. The above-ground part of the plant is green, while its black rhizomes are long and creeping, capable of penetrating very hard soils.

'Picta' is fully hardy. It can grow in any garden soil that does not dry out too much in summer. Despite its preference for moist areas, this plant can withstand long periods of drought. The faded inflorescences add charm to the winter scenery around ponds. As a sculptural and ornamental plant, Phalaris arundinacea 'Picta' has a spreading rhizome that is useful for vegetating the banks of a natural pond or a large body of water. It is also appreciated for its ability to stabilise soil around water sources, making it suitable for use in water treatment systems. According to certain studies, Reed Canary Grass can improve soil quality and biodiversity in the areas where it is grown.