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Description
Calamagrostis Purpurea, also known as purple reed grass, is a cool-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It features a clump-forming habit, with upright stems that are blue-green in color and turn purple in the fall. The plant produces airy, purple-red plumes that emerge in early summer and persist through fall. Calamagrostis Purpurea is a popular ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Calamagrostis |
Appearance
Calamagrostis Purpurea has a striking appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. The plant has blue-green stems that turn purple in the fall. It produces feathery, purple-red plumes that emerge in early summer and persist through fall. These plumes can grow up to 3 feet tall and sway gracefully in the wind. The foliage is narrow and arching, with a fine texture that adds interest to the landscape. In winter, the foliage turns a golden-brown color and provides year-round interest.
Care Guide
Calamagrostis Purpurea is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for ensuring its health and longevity:- Water: Calamagrostis Purpurea prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weaker stems.- Soil: Calamagrostis Purpurea prefers fertile, well-drained soil. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve its texture and fertility.- Sunlight: Calamagrostis Purpurea prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weaker stems and a less vigorous plant.- Hardiness Zones: Calamagrostis Purpurea is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calamagrostis Purpurea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:- Rust: A fungal disease that causes orange-red spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and dispose of them in the trash.- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. Spray with insecticidal soap to control infestations.- Slugs: These pests can feed on the foliage and leave large holes. Use slug bait or handpick to control them.
Habitat
Calamagrostis Purpurea is native to North America and can be found throughout the continent. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and is often found in wetlands, meadows, and along streambanks. The plant is also commonly planted in gardens and landscapes for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Calamagrostis Purpurea deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Calamagrostis Purpurea is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Calamagrostis Purpurea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Calamagrostis Purpurea can be grown in containers. Use a large container with well-drained soil and water regularly.
Q: When should I prune Calamagrostis Purpurea?
A: Calamagrostis Purpurea should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How do I propagate Calamagrostis Purpurea?
A: Calamagrostis Purpurea can be propagated by division in early spring or early fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calamagrostis Purpurea:- Calamagrostis acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’- Calamagrostis brachytricha- Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’- Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Avalanche’
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Calamagrostis Purpurea- The Spruce: Growing Calamagrostis Grass- Garden Design: Purple Lovegrass (Eragrostis spectabilis) & Purple Reed Grass (Calamagrostis purpurea)
