Typha latifolia 'Variegata', known as variegated bulrush or variegated reedmace, is a striped form of the native reedmace. Its narrow, strap-like leaves are striped lengthwise in cream and green, and from July to September it carries dark brown, cigar-shaped bulrush heads that last into winter.

Variegated bulrush at a glance

Botanical name Typha latifolia 'Variegata'
Common name Variegated bulrush, variegated reedmace
Plant type Tall, spreading perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread About 90 cm to 2.4 m tall (sources differ); spreads by rhizomes
Flowers Dark brown, cigar-shaped bulrush heads, July to September
Position Full sun
Soil Fertile, boggy soil or shallow water
Pond depth 0–30 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) (species rating)
Native to Variegated form of the UK native reedmace

Is it suitable for a small pond?

No. Nurseries describe it as vigorous and not for small ponds, and the RHS warns that the species can spread rapidly in shallow water and that its roots may puncture pond liners. Grow it in a solid aquatic basket in a larger pond.

How to plant and care for it

Plant in a basket in full sun, with up to 30 cm of water over the crown. Remove the seed heads before they shed into the water. The RHS describes the species as generally free of pests and diseases.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 30cm

Light: Full sun

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 120cm+ tall, 100cm+ wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

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