Feather Reed Grass

Feather Reed Grass, Calamagrostis

This graceful, metamorphic grass changes its habit and flower color throughout the seasons. The slightest breeze keeps feather reed grass in perpetual motion.

Growing

Feather reed grass grows best in full sun. The soil should be fertile, moist and well drained. Heavy clay and dry soils are tolerated.

Rain and heavy snow may cause feather reed grass to flop temporarily, but it quickly bounces back. Cut it back to 4–6" in early spring before growth begins, and divide it when it begins to die out in the center.

Tips

Whether it’s used as a single, stately focal point, in small groupings or in large drifts, feather reed grass is a desirable, low-maintenance grass. It combines well with late summer- and fall-blooming perennials.

Recommended

C. x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ (Foerster’s feather reed grass) is the most popular selection and forms a loose mound of green foliage from which airy bottlebrush flowers emerge in June. The flowering stems have a loose, arching habit when they first emerge but grow more stiff and upright over summer. Other cultivars include ‘Overdam,’ a compact, less hardy selection with white leaf edges. Watch for a new introduction called ‘Avalanche,’ which has a white center stripe.

Features: open habit becomes upright; silvery pink flowers turn rich tan; green foliage turns bright gold in fall; winter interest

Height: 3–5'

Spread: 2–3'

Hardiness: zones 4–9

Sidebar

Feather reed grass may be susceptible to rust in cool, wet summers or in areas with poor air circulation.