Ribbon Grass Phalaris arundinacea var. picta
ABOUT
Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, commonly known as ribbon grass or gardener's garters, is a perennial grass that is noted for its striking variegated foliage. The leaves of ribbon grass are long and slender, resembling the flat blades of more common types of lawn grasses. What sets ribbon grass apart is the pattern of creamy white to pale yellow stripes that run longitudinally along the green leaves, giving it a decorative, ribbon-like appearance. The striping may vary, with some leaves having more white than green, and others showing a mix of both. As the seasons change from spring to fall, the contrast between the stripes can become more pronounced, adding visual interest to garden spaces where it is grown. In addition to the foliage, ribbon grass has a flowering aspect which typically appears as a cluster of small, feathery flowers. The color of the flowers may be subtle, often a shade of pale green or beige, and these are borne on tall stems that extend above the foliage, swaying gracefully with the wind. The overall appearance of the plant provides a light and airy texture to gardens, and the movements of the flowers and leaves can add a dynamic element to the landscape, though for your request, the specifics regarding their size are not mentioned.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Ribbon Grass, Gardener's Garters, Striped Grass, Lady's Leek
Common names
Baldingera arundinacea var. picta, Digraphis arundinacea var. picta.
ToxicityTo humans
Ribbon grass, the common name for Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, contains alkaloids that may be toxic if the plant is ingested in large quantities. Consumption of this grass can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, harm to the liver or central nervous system. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the amount consumed and the sensitivity of the individual.
To pets
Ribbon grass is also toxic to pets and can cause similar symptoms as in humans when ingested. Pets may experience salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and more serious cases could involve tremors or seizures. It is strongly advised to prevent pets from consuming this plant to avoid these illness symptoms.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Greenish
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Grass
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Ribbon Grass, as it's commonly known, adds visual interest to gardens with its variegated foliage that is striped with green and white or pinkish hues.
- Low maintenance: It adapts well to a variety of soil conditions and requires minimal care once established, making it an easy plant for landscaping.
- Erosion control: Ribbon Grass's dense root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly along stream banks and slopes.
- Fast growth: This plant grows quickly, which can be beneficial for creating coverage or filling in landscape areas in a short period of time.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Ribbon Grass can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with limited water access.
- Wildlife habitat: The dense foliage provides cover and nesting opportunities for small wildlife and birds.
- Versatility in landscape design: It can be used in a variety of ways, including borders, ground cover, container planting, and as a backdrop for other garden plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Ornamental: Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, commonly known as ribbon grass, is often used as a decorative plant in gardens for its striking variegated foliage.
- Erosion Control: Ribbon grass can be planted on slopes or banks to help prevent soil erosion due to its dense and spreading root system.
- Livestock Fodder: Though not a primary choice, ribbon grass can serve as fodder for livestock when other preferred forages are not available.
- Bioremediation: Ribbon grass has been investigated for its ability to absorb and break down contaminants in soil and water, making it potentially useful for cleaning up polluted sites.
- Thatching: Traditionally, the stems of ribbon grass could be used for thatching roofs due to their length and durability.
- Handicrafts: The pliable stems of ribbon grass can be used in the creation of small handicrafts, such as baskets and mats.
- Wildlife Habitat: Ribbon grass provides cover and nesting material for small wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects.
- Pond Borders: When planted around the edges of ponds, ribbon grass can provide a natural-looking border that contrasts well with water features.
- Low-Maintenance Areas: Ribbon grass is suitable for planting in areas where low maintenance is desired, as it requires minimal care once established.
- Dye Plant: Historically, the leaves of ribbon grass may have been used to extract plant dyes for coloring fabrics or crafting materials.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ribbon Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ribbon Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, commonly known as ribbon grass, has the ability to grow in various soil types and environments, symbolizing the capacity to adapt to different life circumstances.
- Perseverance: Ribbon grass is known for its persistence and hardiness, reflecting a quality of perseverance in the face of challenges.
- Balance: The variegated leaves of ribbon grass, featuring stripes of white, green, and pink, represent a balance of different forces and harmonizing contrasts.
- Growth: As a fast-growing plant, ribbon grass signifies quick and prolific growth, both physically and metaphorically in personal development.
- Invasiveness: Due to its aggressive spreading nature, ribbon grass can symbolize the idea of encroachment or domination in a particular area of one's life.
WaterRibbon grass prefers consistently moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly, especially during warm, dry periods. Typically, ribbon grass should be watered once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per square yard depending on the climate and soil type. In very hot weather, you may need to water twice a week. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as ribbon grass does not like to be overly soggy. During the winter months or in cooler climates, watering can be reduced as the plant requires less moisture.
LightRibbon grass thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location for planting ribbon grass is in an area where it will receive at least four hours of direct sunlight each day, although it can tolerate some shade. Too much shade will result in less vigorous growth and can reduce the variegation on the leaves.
TemperatureRibbon grass is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, making it a versatile plant for various climates. It can survive minimum temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing conditions for ribbon grass are within the range of 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it's important to note that extreme heat can be stressful for the plant, so during particularly hot spells, providing extra water can help.
PruningPruning ribbon grass helps maintain its shape and can stimulate new, more vigorous growth. It's best to prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the foliage to about 3 to 4 inches above the ground every couple of years to revitalize the plant. Additionally, ribbon grass can become invasive, so remove any unwanted runners during the growing season to control its spread.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRibbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacea var. picta) thrives well in a rich, moist soil mix with good drainage. The best soil mix can be comprised of garden loam, peat, and sand in roughly equal proportions to facilitate healthy root growth. The pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingRibbon Grass does not often require repotting as it is a vigorously spreading grass. However, if necessary due to overcrowding, it can be repotted in the spring every 2 to 3 years or divided to manage its growth.
Humidity & MistingRibbon Grass prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity conditions found in most temperate outdoor environments. High humidity is not essential for the growth of this hardy grass.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Give bright light and water regularly.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, moist soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cyclePhalaris arundinacea var. picta, commonly known as Ribbon Grass or Gardener's Garters, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in early spring, develops into a young seedling. As temperatures increase, the seedling establishes a root system and shoots, rapidly forming a tuft of variegated leaves. During late spring to early summer, the plant reaches the vegetative growth stage with vigorous foliage expansion. By midsummer, it transitions to the reproductive stage, producing tall, flowering stems that contain compact flower heads or panicles, which are usually wind-pollinated. After pollination, the flowers develop into small grains by late summer or early fall which are then dispersed by various means, completing the cycle with new seeds ready to germinate. Throughout its life, Ribbon Grass spreads aggressively via rhizomes, enabling vegetative propagation and the potential to become invasive.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, commonly known as Ribbon Grass or Reed Canary Grass, is by division. This is best done in early spring as the grass begins to grow, or in the fall after the growing season has ended. To propagate by division, dig up a mature clump of the grass with a spade, and carefully split the root mass into sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. The divisions can then be replanted in the ground immediately, spaced about 12 to 15 inches apart (30 to 38 centimeters), or potted up if necessary. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish root connections in their new locations.
