Variegated Reed Canary Grass
Phalaris arundinacea 'Luteo Picta'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe, Asia, North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Phalaris arundinacea 'Luteopicta' is a perennial grass known for its upright growth and striking variegated foliage with yellow and green stripes. It is a vigorous spreader and can be invasive in moist soils. This cultivar is particularly valued for its striking variegated leaves, which add vibrant color and texture to garden borders and containers throughout the growing season.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring for optimal growth.
- Divide in early spring or late fall every 3-4 years.
- Cut back dead foliage in late winter for tidy appearance.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight for best color and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years
- Remove dead foliage in late winter
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy, poorly-drained soil
- Refrain from fertilizing excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Variegated Reed Canary Grass questions
What zones can Variegated Reed Canary Grass grow in?
Variegated Reed Canary Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Variegated Reed Canary Grass deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Variegated Reed Canary Grass, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Variegated Reed Canary Grass bloom?
Variegated Reed Canary Grass typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Variegated Reed Canary Grass need full sun?
Variegated Reed Canary Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
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Grow Variegated Reed Canary Grass 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.
