feather reed grass
Calamagrostis x acutiflora
Feather reed grass is one of the most popular ornamental grasses worldwide. This plant was formerly known as Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘stricta.’ The flowers open as fanned-out panicles and then narrow as the summer progresses into golden-colored linear shapes. Feather reed grass forms clumps and stays upright even after heavy storms. The cultivar 'Overdam' may be hardy only in southern Iowa.
Feather reed grass 'Overdam,' switchgrass 'Heavy Metal' in left foreground. Vander Veer Botanical Park, Davenport. 9 Sept 2003. Photo: Anna Gardner |
Annual or perennial: perennial Origin: Europe, Height: to 6', but usually shorter Hardiness: zone 4 Habit: clumping Moisture: well-drained, but tolerates clay Propagation: division Light: 3/4 to full sun Flowering: July-September Uses: specimen and larger plantings, fresh and dried flowers |
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Feather reed grass 'Karl Foerster.' Iowa Arboretum near Luther. 15 July 2003. Photo: Anna Gardner |
Feather reed grass 'Overdam,' Vander Veer Botanical Park, Davenport. 9 Sept 2003. Photo: Anna Gardner |
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