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Description
Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster is a beautiful ornamental grass native to Europe. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is known for its tall and slender growth habit. This grass species is popular among gardeners as it adds height and texture to any landscape design. It is also used in commercial landscaping projects, such as parks, golf courses, and business campuses.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Calamagrostis |
| Species | Acuitflora |
| Cultivar | Karl Foerster |
Appearance
Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster grows up to 5 feet tall with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. It has an upright and narrow growth habit with stiff, narrow leaves that are green in color. In summer, it produces tall and slender flower spikes that are reddish-brown in color. The flowers turn golden-brown in fall, adding to the grass’s visual appeal. This grass species is a cool-season plant and blooms in late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster is a low-maintenance grass species that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:Water: This grass species prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Water deeply once a week, especially during the hot summer months.Fertilization: Fertilize the grass in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to weak growth.Soil: Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but thrives in slightly acidic soil.Sunlight: This grass species prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many blooms.Hardiness Zones: Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by rust, leaf spots, and smut. Regular inspection and treatment with fungicides can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster is native to Europe and grows in meadows, woodland edges, and along streams. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster grow in containers?
A: Yes, this grass species can grow in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: Can Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster be propagated by division?
A: Yes, this grass species can be propagated by division in early spring or late fall.Q: How long does Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster live?
A: This grass species is a perennial plant and can live for several years with proper care.Q: Can Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster be used as a privacy screen?
A: Yes, this grass species can be used as a privacy screen as it grows tall and dense.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calamagrostis Acutiflora Karl Foerster:- Calamagrostis ‘Overdam’- Calamagrostis ‘Avalanche’- Calamagrostis brachytricha- Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Stricta’- Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Eldorado’
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’. Retrieved August 11, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281508- Plant Delights Nursery. (n.d.). Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ (feather reed grass). Retrieved August 11, 2021, from https://www.plantdelights.com/products/calamagrostis-x-acutiflora-karl-foerster-feather-reed-grass
