Avalanche Variegated Feather Reed Grass is a clumping ornamental grass that has leaf clumps growing to about 4 feet high and 3 feet wide, and vertical flower spikes growing to 6 feet high. The dark green leaves have white stripes down the middle. The purplish-yellow flowers appear in early summer and provide visual interest year round.

Although it prefers moderate soils and full sun it will tolerate light shade, and even damp clay soils, it struggles in hot humid summer climates. The flower spikes are usually retained for winter interest and the entire plant is cut back or in late winter to promote new growth. This plant is sterile, so self-seeding is not a problem, and the plant does not spread aggressively making it a low maintenance beauty. This grass can be used in massed plantings and also be a successful specimen plant.