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Description
Calamagrostis Acutiflora, commonly known as feather reed grass, is a perennial ornamental grass native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a narrow, upright growth habit with green, linear leaves that turn golden in the fall. In summer, it produces feathery, pinkish flowers that turn golden brown in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Calamagrostis |
Appearance
Feather reed grass has a narrow, upright growth habit with green, linear leaves that turn golden in the fall. In summer, it produces feathery, pinkish flowers that turn golden brown in the fall. It can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape. It is also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance plant.
Care Guide
To care for feather reed grass, it is important to give it adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and consider its hardiness zones. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize it with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can be cut back in the fall or left standing for winter interest.
Common Pests & Diseases
Feather reed grass is generally disease and pest-resistant but can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. If necessary, treat with a fungicide. It is also important to keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, and slugs, which can occasionally feed on the plant.
Habitat
Feather reed grass is native to Europe and Asia but can now be found in North America and other parts of the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including wet meadows, marshes, and riverbanks. It is commonly used in gardens and landscapes for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is feather reed grass deer-resistant?
A: Yes, feather reed grass is deer-resistant.
Q: Can feather reed grass grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, feather reed grass can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Q: When should I fertilize feather reed grass?
A: Fertilize feather reed grass with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Q: What hardiness zones can feather reed grass grow in?
A: Feather reed grass is hardy in zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Calamagrostis Brachytricha
- Calamagrostis Canadensis
- Calamagrostis Epigejos
- Calamagrostis Foliosa
References
- “Calamagrostis Acutiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=245965&isprofile=0&basic=calamagrostis.
- “Feather Reed Grass.” The Spruce, 11 Mar. 2021, www.thespruce.com/feather-reed-grass-plant-profile-5072204.
- “Calamagrostis Acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’.” Chicago Botanic Garden, www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/calamagrostis_acutiflora_karl_foerster–.
