Overview
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' is a grass in the genus Dactylis, part of the Q43238 family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, borders and ground cover. It is native to Europe.
About
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' is a perennial ornamental grass with variegated leaves and an upright tussock habit, growing to about 1.0 m. It flowers from June to August and favours full sun on moist but well-drained soils. Fully hardy in the UK (H7) and suitable across USDA zones 4–8, it performs on sandy, loamy and clay soils. Use it in mixed borders or as a textured ground cover.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dactylis glomerata
About the genus
Dactylis is a genus of Eurasian and North African plants in the bluegrass subfamily within the grass family. Dactylis is native to North Africa, they are found throughout the world, and are an invasive species. They are known in English as cock's-foot or cocksfoot grasses, also sometimes as orchard grasses.
Wikipedia contributors, "Dactylis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dactylis
In the garden
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' is a cultivated form of cock's-foot originating from Europe, selected for its light-marked foliage. It forms upright tussocks to around 1.0 m and produces flowering stems in June to August when the variegation contrasts with the panicles. Plant in a sunny spot where soil remains moist but drains freely; the cultivar tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils provided they are not waterlogged. Full sun suits its growth habit and it is rated H7 in the UK, meaning it can be left outdoors through typical British winters; USDA zones 4–8 give an international reference for cold tolerance. Place it where the pale-edged leaves can be seen against darker perennials or grasses — it works well in ornamental grass groups, at the back or centre of borders, and in larger ground-covering drifts. The variegation remains a season-long feature and provides clear contrast when the flower stems appear in June to August.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dactylis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Suggested uses
- ornamental grass, borders, ground cover
- Native to
- Europe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of a range of soil types
- Pruning
- Cut back in early spring to encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata'?
Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of a range of soil types.
Where is the best place to plant Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata'?
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' prefers full sun.
What soil does Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' need?
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata'?
Cut back in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
How big does Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' grow?
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?
Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Dactylis glomerata 'Variegata'?
Division in spring or autumn.
