Overview
Glyceria maxima is a suckering aquatic in the genus Glyceria, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Glyceria maxima grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include pond margins, wet meadows and damp borders.
About
Glyceria maxima, commonly known as reed sweet grass, is a deciduous, suckering aquatic grass suited to boggy conditions. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre and spreads between 1.5 and 2.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This grass thrives in full sun and adapts well to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for poorly-drained soils. It is low maintenance and provides interest during spring and summer, making it suitable for both exposed and sheltered locations facing east, south, or west.
About the genus
Glyceria is a widespread genus of grass family common across Eurasia, Australia, North Africa, and the Americas.
Wikipedia contributors, "Glyceria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Glyceria
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Glyceria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Glyceria maxima size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Aquatic, Grass Like, Bogs
- Habit
- Suckering
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Pond margins, Wet meadows, Damp borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Glyceria maxima
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Glyceria maxima?
Glyceria maxima prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Glyceria maxima need?
Glyceria maxima is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How big does Glyceria maxima grow?
Glyceria maxima reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Glyceria maxima hardy in the UK?
Glyceria maxima has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Glyceria maxima?
Division, Seed.
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