Contents
Description
Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey is a perennial grass commonly known as reed canary grass. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and belongs to the Poaceae family. The plant’s leaves are green with white stripes and grow up to 3 feet tall. The flowers bloom in the summer, producing purple spikelets. The plant is often used for ornamental purposes due to its unique appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Phalaris |
Appearance
Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey has green leaves with white stripes that grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant produces purple spikelets during the summer months. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 30cm in length and 2cm in width. The plant has a clumping growth habit and spreads through underground rhizomes.
Care Guide
Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey requires moist soil and full sunlight to thrive. It is hardy in zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. Pruning is not necessary, but dead leaves and stems can be removed as needed.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other natural remedies. The plant is also prone to fungal infections, such as rust and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along riverbanks. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is often used for erosion control and habitat restoration.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is kept moist and receives full sunlight.
Q: Does Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant is a food source for birds and other wildlife.
Q: How often should Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Phalaris Arundinacea Var. Picta Feesey be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, the plant is often used for ornamental purposes due to its unique appearance.
Related Plants
- Phalaris Aquatica
- Phalaris Canariensis
- Phalaris Minor
- Phalaris Tuberosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Phalaris arundinacea L. var. picta (Lam.) L.H. Bailey. Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PHARP4
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Phalaris arundinacea var. picta. Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281327&isprofile=0&
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Phalaris arundinacea var. picta (Ribbon Grass). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/phalaris-arundinacea-var-picta-ribbon-grass
