Water Plants

Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani 'Zebrinus'

Zebra rush

Cream-colored bands interrupt green upright stems, creating an unusual striped accent at the water’s edge. This rhizome-spreading rush-like sedge suits a sunny pond basket, where its roots can be contained.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Pond placement: Pond-margin basket.
Water depth: Up to 12 in. over the soil.
Winter care: Cold-hardy perennial; protect small containers from freezing solid.
Mature size: About 1½–3¼ ft. (RHS range) tall × About 1½–3¼ ft. wide
Water: Wet soil or shallow water

Measure water above the planting soil, not total pond depth.

Sizes & prices

#1Call for price

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Resistance & tolerances

Wet soil: Tolerates wet soil and shallow water.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Upright cream-and-green banded stems.

Water garden care

Planting method: Aquatic basket for pond-edge planting; keep spreading roots contained.
Spread: Restrict rhizomes; divide or trim roots annually in small ponds.
Division: Divide from spring to midsummer.

Sources & photo credits

Royal Horticultural Society

Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0

Reviewed September 27, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.