Genus of 2 species of rhizomatous, marginal aquatic perennials, ane semi-evergreen and one deciduous, found in shallow water by streams and lakes throughout the N. hemisphere, particulatly E. Asia. The white-stripped leaves of this grassy plant form fanshaped tufts. Its great advantage as a background plant among more spectacular specimens is that it will withstand poor conditions - it is not affected by waterlogging, draughts or cold winter nights. It suffers from few problems, but leaf tips will turn brown if the compost is short of water.