PlantFiles: Ribbon Grass, Reed Canary Grass, Gardener's Garters
Phalaris arundinacea 'Feesey'

The Minnesota DNR has Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) listed on it's invasive species list.
"Ecological Threat:

* Reed canary is a major threat to natural wetlands. It out competes most native species.
* It presents a major challenge in wetland mitigation efforts.
* It forms large, single-species stands, with which other species cannot compete.
* If cut during the growing season a second growth spurt occurs in the fall.
* Invasion is associated with disturbances, such as ditch building, stream channeling sedimentation and intentional planting.
* This Eurasian species has been planted throughout the U.S. since the 1800s for forage and erosion control. It is still being planted."

'Feesey' has a pink tinge to the foliage while it is young. After the season progresses a bit the pink fades away. It's height and spread are about 2-3'. Tan colored plumes or spikes arise in mid-summer.

May be used as a container plant or near a water feature. Prefers partial sun.

Can be invasive.

Feesey is a varigated green and cream color that has a nice pink tinge along the blades that fades over time. I tried to overwinter the Feesey here in zone 5 with the result that I found it had died the following spring - possibly was submerged too far in the pond during the winter. I have since found that ribbon grass prefers moist soil only in winter.