Pleioblastus chino 'Elegantissimus'

Height: 1 to 2 metres

Smaller than the species, this variegated version is cultivated as a garden and pot plant in Japan - and is well-deserving of its "elegantissimus" title. The long, tapering leaves, which are borne on thin, lissome canes, display a vibrant combination of dark-green stripes on a creamy-white background. The rhizomes are slow to spread, so it can be safely grown with other plants. Or grow it on its own, making sure to place it where its shimmering, light-filled leaves are seen to best advantage.