Phragmites Australis

Description

Phragmites Australis, also known as common reed, is a tall perennial grass that grows up to 15 feet in height. It has a hollow stem that is covered with a blue-green waxy coating. The leaves are long and narrow, growing up to 20 inches in length, and are bluish-green in color. The flowers are arranged in large, feathery plumes that can be up to 20 inches long.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Phragmites Australis is a tall, graceful plant that can grow up to 15 feet in height. Its long, narrow leaves are bluish-green in color, and its stem is covered in a blue-green waxy coating. The flowers are arranged in large, feathery plumes that can be up to 20 inches long. The plant’s distinctive appearance makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and landscaping.

Care Guide

Phragmites Australis is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water, making it ideal for wetland areas. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil. The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Water

Phragmites Australis prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Fertilization

Phragmites Australis does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.

Soil

Phragmites Australis can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil.

Sunlight

Phragmites Australis can tolerate full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Phragmites Australis is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Phragmites Australis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections, such as rust and smut.

Habitat

Phragmites Australis is native to Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. It can be found in wetland areas, such as marshes, swamps, and along the edges of ponds and lakes. It is a common plant in wetland restoration projects and is used to control erosion along shorelines.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Phragmites Australis invasive?

A: Yes, Phragmites Australis can be invasive in some areas and can outcompete native plant species.

Q: Can Phragmites Australis be used for erosion control?

A: Yes, Phragmites Australis is often used for erosion control along shorelines.

Q: Is Phragmites Australis drought tolerant?

A: No, Phragmites Australis prefers moist soil and can be damaged by drought.

Q: Can Phragmites Australis be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Phragmites Australis can be grown in large containers, but it requires regular watering and may need to be divided or repotted periodically.

Related Plants

• Phragmites Communis
• Arundo Donax
• Schoenoplectus Californicus
• Typha Latifolia

References

• Bailey, L. H. (1915). The Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture. Macmillan.
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2021). Plant Fact Sheet: Phragmites Australis. https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_phaua.pdf
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Common Reed (Phragmites Australis). https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Invasives/fact/Phragmites.html