skip to main content

Ornamental Grass

What are these growing in my backyard?

11 years ago

Our house came with a large backyard containing quite a bit of neglected and overgrown landscaping. These two "clumps" are growing next to each other. In addition to IDs, any info on how to clean these up and maintain would be greatly appreciated!

#1:

{{gwi:240765}}

Close-up of #1:

{{gwi:240766}}

#2:

{{gwi:240767}}

Close-up of #2:

{{gwi:240768}}

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

donn_
11 years ago
They look like two different forms of Phalaris arundinacea, AKA Gardener's Garters or Ribbon Grass.

The plain green copy is the straight species, and the variegated one is either P.a.var.picta 'Picta' or P.a.var. picta 'Feesey.' The difference between the two variegated cultivars is a slight pink tinge in the leaves on 'Feesey,' most noticeable in the spring.

They are both considered to be invasive in certain areas, like the Midwest.

The foliage will turn brown by late summer, but if you cut them back to within 6" of the ground, they'll throw up fresh new foliage through the fall.
zuzu44
Original Author
11 years ago
Thanks so much for the info!
Related Professionals
South Orange Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Lemay Landscape Contractors · Mason Landscape Contractors · North Plainfield Landscape Contractors · 07920 Landscape Contractors · North Aurora Landscape Contractors · Chino Hills Solar Energy Systems · Danville Solar Energy Systems · Maple Grove Solar Energy Systems · Voorhees Solar Energy Systems · Bound Brook General Contractors · Middletown General Contractors · Murrysville General Contractors · Seabrook General Contractors · Travilah General Contractors

Related Stories

GARDENING GUIDES 6 Ways to Grow Edibles in Small Places

By Matt Kilburn

No big backyard? Join in the grow-your-own fun with these small-space ideas for planting vegetables, fruits and herbs

EDIBLE GARDENS Summer Crops: How to Grow Tomatoes

By Marianne Lipanovich

Plant tomato seedlings in spring for one of the best tastes of summer, fresh from your backyard

OUTBUILDINGS A Playhouse Grows in Brooklyn

By Vanessa Brunner

Urban chaos seems worlds away from this backyard haven in New York CIty, crafted from cedar and a love of play

GARDENING GUIDES Shades of Vegetable Gardens: Growing Edibles in Less Sun

By Steve Asbell

See how one gardener produces a veritable feast of vegetables and herbs under a canopy of shade

HOUZZ TOURS My Houzz: A Grand Overhaul for a Growing Family

A suburban home's top-to-bottom remodel creates plenty of room for entertaining and for little ones

COOL-SEASON CROPS Cool-Season Vegetables: How to Grow Radishes

By Marianne Lipanovich

Fast growing and bright, these easy-care veggies are great for kids and bring plentiful color to a fall or spring garden

SUMMER FRUITS AND VEGETABLES Summer Crops: How to Grow Beans

By Marianne Lipanovich

Grow your own beans for amazing variety and healthy, convenient produce all summer

EDIBLE GARDENS How to Grow Your Own Luscious Cherries

By Marianne Lipanovich

Nope, they’re not the easiest fruit to grow. But with spectacular blossoms and pies as possibilities, cherries are sure worth a try

GARDENING GUIDES Great Design Plant: Grow Blueberries for Their Fruit and More

By Ellen Sousa/Turkey Hill Brook Farm

Eastern gardeners should consider growing blueberry plants for their delicious fruits, bee-friendly spring blooms and brilliant fall foliage

GARDENING GUIDES Summer Crops: How to Grow Okra

By Marianne Lipanovich

Go for the gumbo with this quick-growing edible that brings colorful pods and delicate flowers to a summer garden

Sponsored

More Discussions

Pennisetum orientale

2