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Named after the famous botanist and author EA Bowles who discovered the native species in East Anglia, this is gorgeous deciduous ornamental grass with rich yellow leaves edged in green. It's useful for brightening shady areas, for filling gaps in borders and planting by water where the fine leaves contrast brilliantly with larger leaved plants.  In early summer it throws up long spikes with brown feathery flowers. The variegation is best in partial shade - specimens in full sun can end up looking bleached.

• Garden care: Cut brittle dead foliage right down to the ground in late winter before new growth appears.