This evergreen, rhizomatous, perennial grass has an upright habit, with bamboo-like foliage to 14 inches tall. Flat, linear leaves are sometimes striped yellow. Pale green spikelets turn buff with age.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsUsed extensively for buffer strips, shoreline plantings, and forage, it is an extremely aggressive invader of wetlands in the Midwest.
CareNeeds to be contained if grown in a mixed or herbaceous border. Adaptable to all soil conditions.
PropagationDivide from mid-spring to midsummer.
ProblemsErgot, rust, smut, brown patch, and leaf spots.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Scotts Cordless Grass-Shear/Shrub-Trimmer Combo
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- 13.5 x 3 x 5 inches
- Uses a 7.2-Volt 2Ah high-capacity built-in lithium-ion battery; Includes a fast charger
Black and Decker 22-inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer
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- 38 x 7 x 7 inches
- 6.9 pounds
- 1 Lithium Ion battery required (included)
- Genus : Phalaris
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Plant Type : Grasses
- Flower Color : Green
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Moisture : Medium to Wet
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Bloom Time : Summer
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