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Description
Calamagrostis Canescens, commonly known as the Bluejoint Reedgrass, is a perennial grass found in North America. It has a thick and extensive root system that allows it to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as drought, flooding, and fire. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters in height and has a blue-green color with a hint of purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Calamagrostis |
Appearance
The Bluejoint Reedgrass has a dense and upright growth habit with a cylindrical stem. The leaves are long and narrow with a bluish-green color that turns purple in the fall. The plant produces elongated panicles that are reddish-purple in color and contain numerous spikelets. The flowers bloom from June to August.
Care Guide
Water
The Bluejoint Reedgrass requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
The plant does not require regular fertilization as it can obtain nutrients from the soil. However, adding organic matter to the soil can improve its growth.
Soil
The Bluejoint Reedgrass prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH from acidic to alkaline.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The Bluejoint Reedgrass is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bluejoint Reedgrass is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and smut. It may also be affected by pests such as aphids and spider mites.
Habitat
The Bluejoint Reedgrass is commonly found in wetland areas such as marshes, swamps, and along stream banks. It can also grow in upland areas such as meadows and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Bluejoint Reedgrass a good choice for landscaping?
A: Yes, the Bluejoint Reedgrass is a great choice for landscaping as it can add texture and color to a garden. It can also be used for erosion control and to attract wildlife.
Q: How often should the Bluejoint Reedgrass be pruned?
A: The Bluejoint Reedgrass does not require frequent pruning but can be cut back in the fall to remove dead leaves and stalks.
Q: How can I propagate the Bluejoint Reedgrass?
A: The Bluejoint Reedgrass can be propagated through division in the spring or fall.
Q: Can the Bluejoint Reedgrass be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Bluejoint Reedgrass can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its extensive root system.
Related Plants
- Calamagrostis Canadensis
- Calamagrostis Arundinacea
- Calamagrostis Epigejos
- Calamagrostis Langsdorffii
References
- USDA Plants Database: Calamagrostis Canescens
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Calamagrostis Canescens
- University of Vermont Extension: Calamagrostis Canescens
