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Description
Calamagrostis Stricta, also known as Narrowleaf Reedgrass, is a cool-season grass that grows in dense clumps. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. The plant has long, narrow leaves and produces tall, erect stems that can reach up to 4 feet in height. The stems bear clusters of tiny flowers that bloom in early summer and turn into silvery seed heads in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Calamagrostis |
Appearance
The leaves of Calamagrostis Stricta are long and narrow, measuring up to 1/4 inch in width and 18 inches in length. They have a bluish-green hue and are flat and smooth. The stems are erect and can grow up to 4 feet tall. They are slender and round, with a reddish tint at the base. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, arranged in clusters along the stem. They bloom in early summer and turn into silvery seed heads in the fall, which persist through the winter.
Care Guide
Calamagrostis Stricta is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. It is also tolerant of salt spray and can be grown near the coast.
Water: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but prolonged dry spells can cause the leaves to turn brown and the plant to go dormant.
Fertilization: Calamagrostis Stricta does not require frequent fertilization. A single application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full to partial sun and can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: Calamagrostis Stricta is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calamagrostis Stricta is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases, which can cause the leaves to turn brown and die. The plant may also attract grasshoppers, which can feed on the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Calamagrostis Stricta is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. It is a common component of riparian zones and can grow in water up to 12 inches deep. The plant is also found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q. Is Calamagrostis Stricta a good plant for erosion control?
A. Yes, Calamagrostis Stricta is an excellent plant for erosion control. Its dense clumping habit helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Q. Can Calamagrostis Stricta be grown in containers?
A. Yes, Calamagrostis Stricta can be grown in containers. However, it may need to be divided and repotted every few years to prevent the plant from becoming root-bound.
Q. How often should I water Calamagrostis Stricta?
A. Calamagrostis Stricta should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. However, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
Q. Can Calamagrostis Stricta be propagated by division?
A. Yes, Calamagrostis Stricta can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections, then replant in a new location.
Related Plants
- Calamagrostis acutiflora (Feather Reedgrass)
- Calamagrostis canadensis (Bluejoint Reedgrass)
- Calamagrostis epigejos (Wood Small-reed)
- Calamagrostis purpurascens (Purple Reedgrass)
References
- “Calamagrostis stricta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g910.
- “Calamagrostis Stricta.” Plant Finder. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2305/narrowleaf-reed-grass/.
- “Calamagrostis stricta.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CAST.
