Variegated Giant Reed, Arundo donax variegata

Example of Variegated Giant Reed

Sun/Partial Sun, Warm-Season

As one of the tallest ornamental grasses, Variegated Giant Reed makes quite a statement. Often used alone as a specimen planting, it can also function as a screen or wind break when planted en masse. It keeps its form for winter interest, though it can get damaged from wind or snow. It is tolerant of wet soil, yet also does quite well in low water conditions. Giant Reed has a rhizomatous growth habit, so it does spread, but not very rapidly in Kansas. Its woody stems and roots can be very difficult to divide or remove.

The plants took off in the second year of the trial and grew to be very tall and broad. The variegation was very distinct in spring, but as the season progressed it stayed on the growing tips only and progressed from white to yellow. So most of the plant is a solid green color by late season.

Advertised Height Advertised Zone

168”(14’)

6
Year Height/Width
Year 1 60”/20”
Year 2 156”/45”
Date Pictures
Sept 2007 Variegated Giant Reed in September
November 2007 Variegated Giant Reed in November
September 2008 Variegated Giant Reed in September 2008
Close-up - September 2008 Close up in September 2008
October 2008 Variegated Giant Reed in October
September 2009 Variegated Giant Reed in September 2009
Close-up ~ Sept. 2009 Variegated Giant Reed close up in Sept. 2009
January 2010 Variegated Giant Reed in January