Phalaris arundinacea aka Ribbon Grass

Phalaris arundinacea, also known as reed canary grass or gardener's-garters, is a vigorous perennial bunchgrass with a running rootstock. It forms extensive single-species stands along the margins of lakes and streams, as well as in wet open areas. This tall grass can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and has narrow, linear, mid-green leaves that can grow up to 35cm long. In summer, it produces narrow panicles of pale green flower spikelets. With a wide distribution in Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North America, Phalaris arundinacea goes by different names such as alpiste roseau in French, Rohrglanzgras in German, and kusa-yoshi in Japanese. In its native habitat, it is often found alongside rivers, streams, ponds, and wetlands. One popular cultivar of this species is Ribbon Grass, or Phalaris arundinacea var. picta, which features variegated foliage and can serve as an attractive ground cover. While it may occasionally flower, the main appeal of Ribbon Grass lies in its foliage rather than its blooms. This cool-season grass experiences growth in spring and fall but may enter a dormant state during the summer months.