About
A rapidly-spreading deciduous grass that will form an extensive colony of erect, leafy stems to 2m. Drooping, linear leaves with yellow variegation turn light brown in autumn, and terminal dark purple flowering panicles are borne from late summer.
About the genus
Phragmites are vigorous rhizomatous perennial grasses with linear leaves and large feathery purple panicles of flowers in late summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Herbaceous Perennial, Bogs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
CultivationUnlike the green-leaved forms, this particular cultivar of reed is suited not only to wetlands, but may also be grown in moisture retentive sites where it is less vigorous, though still has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. Suitable for bog gardens
PruningCut back in autumn or winter
PropagationDivide in early spring or summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free