Overview
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) is a columnar upright aquatic in the genus Phragmites, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and wildflower meadow.
About
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' is a cultivar of reed belonging to the genus Phragmites, known for its aquatic, herbaceous perennial nature typically found in bogs. This deciduous plant grows with a columnar upright habit, reaching heights of 1.5 to 2.5 metres and spreading 2.5 to 4 metres over 5 to 10 years. It thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing aspects and tolerates a range of soil types and pH levels, from chalk to clay and acidic to alkaline conditions. It prefers moist but well-drained or poorly-drained soils and is of interest through spring, summer, and autumn.
About the genus
Phragmites is a genus of four species of large perennial reed grasses found in wetlands throughout temperate and tropical regions of the world.
Wikipedia contributors, "Phragmites", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phragmites
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Phragmites
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Aquatic, Herbaceous Perennial, Bogs
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v)
- Propagation
- Division from early spring to early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v)?
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) need?
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How big does Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) grow?
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) hardy in the UK?
Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v) has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Phragmites australis subsp. australis 'Variegatus' (v)?
Division from early spring to early summer.