Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Feather Reed Grass
Calamagrostis x acutiflora

Feather Reed Grass <em>Calamagrostis x acutiflora</em>
Feather Reed Grass Calamagrostis x acutiflora
 
Features

Very showy upright grass with seed heads that last well into the winter. Semi evergreen with medium green foliage. Flowers appear on 3-4 foot stalks above the foliage in May-June that bleach to a buff color.

This is a clump forming cool season grass.

 
 
Culture
Prefers moist rich soil in full sun but will tolerate heavy soils and and heat if watered. Shade tends to cause the foliage to flop over. Cut back in spring before new growth starts. 
 
Cultivars

'Avalanche'4' tall, variegated form with wide white strip on each leaf. Gold flowers in summer.

'Karl Foerster' 5'- 6' tall with green foliage and tan seed heads.

'Overdam' 3' tall, green leaves edged with white stripe, compact. Pink flowers in early summer. Is less vigorous.

'Stricta' 5'-7' tall, very upright

 
 
Mature Height
3-5 Feet
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Variegated
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


 
Additional Notes
Good as a stunning vertical accent either as a group or as a specimen. Long-lasting seed heads make it very attractive well into late winter and early spring.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic