About
Glyceria maxima, the reed sweet grass, is a strong-growing, aquatic, rhizomatous perennial grass reaching up to 2 m tall with dark-green, strap-shaped leaves tinged pink in spring. Large, spreading, purplish-green panicles are produced in late summer. Can spread extensively � best planted in aquatic baskets to control growth in managed ponds.
About the genus
Glyceria, the sweet grasses, 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. Excellent plants for the margins of ponds and streams.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Grass Like, Bogs
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toEurope to China (Xinjiang)
Care notes
CultivationGrow 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 aquatic weeds, pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningLeaves can be cut back when they die off in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free