Calamagrostis x acutifolia “Karl Foerster” *

Feather Reed Grass
Calamagrostis x acutifolia “Karl Foerster”
Type: Perennial Ornamental Grass
Exposure: Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular

In early spring, this easy-to-care-for grass starts producing bright green, narrow leaves that form a clump to 3ft (90cm) high and wide. Strongly upright stalks produce greenish feathery plumes in early summer, which extend its height to 6ft (1.8m,) and mature into stiff spikes which are the color of wheat late in the summer. These will last well into the winter, and can be left in place for some seasonal interest, or cut and used for floral arrangements. Speaking of cutting, the whole plant should be cut to the ground in March or so (as or before new growth starts), to begin its cycle again. Feather Reed Grass is effective in groups, as an informal seasonal hedge or backdrop, or singly as a specimen. It was awarded the Perennial Plant of the Year Award for 2001.

Pro Tip: You may encounter something labelled “Calamagrostis x acutifolia ‘stricta.”’ This is exactly the same plant.

*Photo credits: #1 – www.snipview.com
#2 – www.deelish.ie

Cheers,

John