Care Guide
Golden reed
Phragmites Australis Candy Stripe
Care at a Glance
Lighting
Adaptable
Growth Rate
Moderate
Growth Form
Varies
Placement
Versatile
True Aquatic
Yes
Available As
2” and 4” Pot
About This Plant
Phragmites australis'Aurea' Green and yellow striped foliage.
Quick-Reference Details
- Common name
- Golden reed
- Scientific name
- Phragmites Australis Candy Stripe
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to
- Europe
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Requirements
- Hardy marginal
- Available as
- 2” and 4” Pot
Difficulty — Intermediate
Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
CO2 & Fertilization
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Tank Size & Setup
Works in tanks 10 gallons and up. Match the plant size to your tank depth for the cleanest aquascape.
Aquascaping & Placement
Position to suit your aquascape — most placements work as long as light reaches the leaves.
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Common Care Issues
Slow initial growth
Most aquarium plants pause for 2-4 weeks after planting while they convert from their nursery-grown emersed form to fully submerged growth. New leaves that emerge underwater will look thinner and slightly different — this is the plant adapting, not a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does Golden reed need?
Golden reed adapts to most planted-tank lighting setups. A standard LED fixture run 7-9 hours a day produces good growth.
Does Golden reed need CO2?
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Is Golden reed good for beginners?
Golden reed is rated intermediate-level. Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
How fast does Golden reed grow?
Most planted-tank growers report moderate growth, with trims needed every few weeks under typical conditions.
What fish and invertebrates are compatible with Golden reed?
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Available to Purchase
Golden reed — $22.99
Free 2-day shipping on orders over $100