Phalaris
Canary grass
- Height × spread
- 0.75m – 0.85m × 0.6m – 0.6m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
The Reed Canary grass is generally seen in its variegated forms which are less vigorous and invasive than the green leaf forms. The variegated forms are brightly patterned and present clean, clear colours. Phalaris arundinacea 'Feesey' for example has clear green and white striping along its length. There are forms with creamy yellow variegation as well. These grasses are up to 1.5 metres in height. They all have a tendency to spread and can invade other plants if not kept under control, so be prepared for some maintenance work.
- Flower colour
- Brown, Pink
- Foliage colour
- Green, White
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Cube
- Height
- 0.75m – 0.85m
- Spread
- 0.6m – 0.6m
- Season of interest
- Summer, Autumn
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Wild flower meadow, Seaside garden, Prairie garden, Cottage garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, likes part shade, tolerates light shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam (normal), Poor soil
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil, Damp and wet soil, Well drained soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, most are hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Ground cover, Bird attraction
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water frequently to keep the soil moist
The plant thrives in moist or boggy soil, doesn't tolerate dryness and should be watered frequently, not only after a period of drought, but if the soil begins to dry out spring to autumn. Check plants in pots more frequently, especially in hot weather.
Spring - late · Planting
Divide when too large
When the plant is too large clumps may be divided into two or more pieces. Rhizomes can be cut, whilst small bulbs or offsets are detached. The new plants can be grown in a container or planted in the ground.
Winter
Winter - mid-late · Planting
Prune to the ground in winter
Cut foliage to the ground before new growth starts in spring.
Where stems are grown for ornamental value, they should be removed either before new growth starts in spring, or during winter when they begin to look ragged or untidy.
Found in
More Phalaris
Phalaris arundinacea var. picta 'Feesey'
Gardener's garters, Reed canary grass, Ribbon grass
Phalaris arundinacea var. picta
Gardener's garters, Reed canary grass, Ribbon grass
Phalaris arundinacea var. picta 'Arctic Sun'
Gardener's garters, Reed canary grass, Ribbon grass