Glyceria maxima 'Variegata' (Variegated Reed Sweet-Grass)

Glyceria maxima 'Variegata', the Variegated Reed Sweet-Grass, is a striking ornamental aquatic grass cultivated from the native European Glyceria maxima species. Its erect, strap-like leaves are boldly striped in cream, white, and green along their full length, with a particularly vivid pink flush in spring and autumn growth periods that adds an additional seasonal dimension to the pond margin. Significantly less aggressive than the plain green species, it is widely recommended by Dutch and Belgian water garden specialists as a controlled and manageable marginal plant for medium to large ponds. It thrives in shallow water up to 15 cm deep at the pond margin and provides attractive structural height and color contrast throughout the growing season.

Plant in shallow water (0–15 cm depth) at the pond margin in full sun. Grows in contained baskets or directly in pond soil. Cold-hardy in Belgian and Dutch climates — dies back to ground level in winter and re-emerges reliably in spring. Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor and control spread. Does not require special substrate or fertilization — thrives in naturally nutrient-rich pond water.