Ribbon Grass 'Picta' (Phalaris arundinacea): A Variegated, Spreading Grass for Wet Sites

Ribbon Grass 'Picta', also known as Gardener's Garters, is a variegated cultivar of Phalaris arundinacea, a grass native to wetlands across the Northern Hemisphere. It is valued for its striking white-and-green striped leaves but notorious for its aggressive spreading habit.

Variegated but Invasive

'Picta' forms a dense mat of upright stems 2–3 feet tall. The leaves are longitudinally striped with white and green, often with a pink blush in spring. It spreads rapidly by thick rhizomes, forming large colonies. The flower panicles are airy and pale green, aging to tan.

Caution and Use

Due to its invasiveness, 'Picta' should be planted only in contained areas (pots, bordered beds) or where its spread can be managed (e.g., wet meadows where it competes with other aggressive plants). It thrives in wet soils and full sun to part shade. It is very cold-hardy.