Dichromena colorata (Star Grass)

Product Description 

Dichromena colorata, commonly known as Star Grass, is a striking shallow‑water marginal prized for its white, star‑shaped bracts that rise above fine, grass‑like foliage. Unlike many pond plants that peak early in the year, Star Grass delivers strong visual interest from July right through to November, extending the season when other marginals are fading.

Perfect for pond margins, wetland edges, bog gardens, and rain gardens, this slow‑spreading plant forms a graceful vertical accent without becoming invasive. Its long flowering period also provides late‑season support for pollinating insects and wildlife.

A favourite for smaller ponds and contemporary water features, Dichromena colorata brings a clean, architectural look with minimal maintenance.

Key Features

• White star‑shaped bracts above slender, grass‑like foliage
• Flowers July–November, extending pond interest into late autumn
• Slow‑growing, ideal for small ponds or contained planting
• Planting depth: 0–5 cm (shallow marginal)
• Height: 40–60 cm at maturity
• Sun/part shade tolerant
• Wildlife‑friendly, supporting insects and birds late in the year

Care & Planting Instructions

• Plant in wet soil or shallow water at 0–5 cm depth.
• Position in full sun to partial shade.
• Trim back in autumn after foliage dies back, leaving a little material to protect new shoots.
• Divide in spring if required.
• Slow‑growing—ideal for controlled planting in baskets.

Measurements

• Height: 40–60 cm
• Spread: Approx. 30 cm (slow)
• Depth: 0–5 cm
• Flowering: July–November
• Growth Rate: Slow

🌱 Companion Plant Suggestions 

Chosen to match height, texture, colour contrast, and late‑season interest.

Marginals (structure & contrast)

• Iris versicolor – purple/blue contrast
• Butomus umbellatus ‘Schneeweisschen’ – soft white umbels
• Pontederia cordata – bold foliage + blue spikes
• Cyperus longus – architectural verticals

Oxygenators (water clarity & balance)

• Ceratophyllum demersum (Hornwort)
• Elodea canadensis

Floating Plants (light control & surface texture)

• Frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus‑ranae)
• Water Soldier (Stratiotes aloides)

Bog & Moisture‑Loving Companions

• Primula beesiana
• Mentha aquatica (pollinator‑rich)