Scirpus lacustris 'Albescens'
perennial

White Variegated Bulrush

Scirpus lacustris 'Albescens'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Wet or submerged

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eurasia, North Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and wildlife

The Story

Plant Bio

Schoenoplectus lacustris (syn. Scirpus lacustris), the common bulrush, is a rhizomatous, aquatic perennial. It forms dense colonies of cylindrical, leafless, green stems and produces clusters of brownish flower spikelets in summer. It is typically found in shallow water at the margins of lakes and ponds. 'Albescens' is a striking cultivar noted for its upright, cylindrical stems which are boldly variegated with vertical white or creamy-yellow stripes against a green background. The variegation is most pronounced in spring.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds lush greenery and texture to water gardens and wetlands.
Practical UsesErodes shoreline and filters water naturally.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for aquatic insects and birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes into moist soil or shallow water
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
  3. Plant in full sun for best growth
  4. Water consistently to keep soil moist
  5. Divide every 2-3 years in early spring
  6. Mulch lightly to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist or submerged for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep soil moist or water shallowly flooded ๐ŸŒฑ
  • Divide every 2-3 years to promote healthy growth
  • Plant in full sun for vigorous foliage

Don't

  • Allow soil to dry out completely โŒ
  • Use chemical fertilizers excessively
  • Plant in deep shade

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wetland border with lush green grassesShallow water feature accentNaturalized pond edge

Companion Plants

Juncus effusus Carex spp. Typha latifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Variegated Bulrush questions

What zones can White Variegated Bulrush grow in?

White Variegated Bulrush is hardy in USDA Zones 4โ€“10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Variegated Bulrush deer resistant?

Yes โ€” White Variegated Bulrush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does White Variegated Bulrush bloom?

White Variegated Bulrush typically blooms in summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone โ€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Variegated Bulrush need full sun?

White Variegated Bulrush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow White Variegated Bulrush with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play