Add Beauty to Your Yard with Grass that has a White Stripe Down the Middle

A lawn with lush green grass can look beautiful, but sometimes you want to add a little pizzazz. One way to do that is to plant grass varieties that have a striking white stripe down the center of each blade. This variegated grass makes a bold statement and stands out from a plain green lawn.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the top options for grass with a white stripe in the middle. We’ll discuss their key features, growth habits, and best uses in the landscape. Read on to learn how to incorporate this eye-catching grass into your own yard or garden.

What is Variegated Grass?

Grass with a white stripe down the middle is known as variegated grass. This type of grass has blades that are striped lengthwise with alternate sections of green and white. The variegation comes from a lack of chlorophyll in some parts of the leaf which results in the white color.

Variegated grass adds visual interest through its uniquely colored foliage. When planted en masse, it can create beautiful patterns and textures. The stripes also seem to shimmer in the breeze, adding movement to the landscape.

Benefits of Variegated Grass

There are several benefits that make variegated grass a great choice:

• Provides year-round interest – Unlike plain green grass, variegated varieties keep their stripe even when dormant in winter
• Adds texture and dimension – The stripes break up solid blocks of green for more visual appeal
• Creates patterns – Variegated grass can be planted in waves, stripes, or blocks for a planned layout
• Softens hardscapes – Its flowing texture helps soften paved areas, rocks, or buildings
• Good contrast plant – The white stripe makes an excellent contrast against darker greens or reds
• Low maintenance – Once established, care is about the same as for ordinary turf

Top Picks for Variegated Grass

If you’re ready to add some striped grass to your landscape, these are some of the best varieties to consider:

1. Variegated Maiden Grass

One of the most popular ornamental grasses, maiden grass has gracefully arching leaves that bear white stripes. The variety Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ grows in neat, upright clumps reaching 4-6 feet tall and wide. Pinkish plumes appear by early fall, eventually fading to white. This grass thrives in zones 5-9.

2. Japanese Silver Grass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’ is another maiden grass cultivar but with horizontal yellow bands along the blades. It forms large, vase-shaped clumps up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. Silvery plumes emerge in fall. ‘Zebrinus’ prefers full sun and moist soil, performing well in zones 5-9.

3. Variegated Ribbon Grass

Phalaris arundinacea ‘Picta’ is a compact grass that grows just 1-2 feet tall. Its leaves are striped lengthwise with green, white, and pink for a colorful ribbon effect. This variety spreads via rhizomes to form a dense groundcover. Ribbon grass thrives in wet areas in zones 4-9.

4. Variegated Porcupine Grass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’ is a dwarf maiden grass, only reaching 3-5 feet tall. Its slender leaves have bold white midribs. Showy copper-colored plumes appear in fall. This variety needs well-drained soil and full sun, performing best in zones 5-9.

5. Zebra Grass

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’ is very similar to Japanese silver grass but may be more readily available. It also has yellow horizontal banding on the leaves and grows in vase-shaped clumps to 6 feet tall. Silvery plumes emerge in fall. Zebra grass is cold hardy in zones 5-9.

How to Grow and Care for Variegated Grasses

Many variegated grass varieties can grow well in a range of conditions. Here are some tips for success:

• Sun: Most types require at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Morning sun is ideal.

• Soil: Well-drained soil with average fertility is best. Wet or compacted soil can cause problems.

• Planting: Space plants 2-3 feet apart. Give them room to reach mature size.

• Water: Water regularly the first season, then just occasionally once established.

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring and again in midsummer.

• Maintenance: Cut back previous year’s growth in late winter before new shoots appear.

Using Variegated Grasses in Your Landscape

There are endless ways to incorporate ornamental grasses into your yard or garden. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

• Accent plant – Use a variegated grass as a specimen plant for emphasis

• Border edges – Line walkways, fences, or beds with grass for texture

• Containers – Grow in patio pots or planter boxes for mobility

• Groundcover – Allow to spread over slopes or large areas for erosion control

• Groupings – Mass several grasses together for greater visual impact

• Screens – Use tall varieties to block unattractive views or add privacy

• Water gardens – Plant at pond or stream edges to resemble reeds

Adding variegated grass with a striking white stripe down the middle is an easy way to upgrade your landscape. The unique coloration and texture of these grasses allow you to create stunning effects. With minimal care required once established, you can enjoy their beauty for years to come. Consider one of the excellent variegated grass varieties profiled here as a new addition to your own yard or garden.

White streaks or patches on your lawn are often caused by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation.

Yes, variegated ribbon grass (Phalaris arundinacea var. picta) is considered invasive in many regions.