The plant is commonly called Reed grass or Small Reed and has about 230 species. It is a Perennial plant and flourishes in cool season. The plant is found mainly in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Calamagrostis is one of the best upright growing grasses.

 

This reed grass is a beautiful plant and provides wonderful contrast amongst low shrubs and perennials. It is one of the most versatile, attractive, and low maintenance ornamental grasses. The seeds of the plant are sterile, which means the plant won't self-seed.

 

The deep green, shiny foliage of this cool season grass appears in early spring and lasts until early winter. It usually has hairless narrow leaves. It has a single flower and is purple or purple-brown. They appear in early summer on long culms. They can be very decorative. They are tall and start off pale green in summer and gradually turn bright golden yellow. These move in the breeze and last into the winter months.

 

Calamagrostis requires full sun; moist to wet fertile soil and tolerates a wide range of soil types, but thrives in clay soil. Even though Calamagrostis can grow in fresh-water bogs, it also does well in drier areas. Fertilizer may be required to produce maximum height. Low fertility will result in shorter plants. It is usually free of serious disease or insect problems although a foliar rust disease can occur in wet summers in situations with poor air circulation.

 

The plant is used as a specimen, in a border, as a hedge or screen, as a backdrop for roses and other perennials, in arrangements.

 

Did you know?

 

• The word "Calamagrostis" is derived from the Greek word kalamos (reed) and agrostis (a kind of grass).
• The Perennial Plant Association has awarded the title of Perennial Plant of the Year 2001 to Calamagrostis xacutiflora 'Karl Foerster'.