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Description
Lolium Arundinaceum, also known as Reed Canarygrass, is a tall, perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a dense tuft of leaves at the base with long, narrow stems that hold the flowers and seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Lolium |
Appearance
Reed Canarygrass has long, flat, and pointed leaves that grow up to 2 feet long and 1 inch wide. The stems are round, smooth, and hollow, and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The flowers are arranged in a dense spike at the top of the stem and are green to purplish in color. The seeds are small and brown, and are contained within a sheath.
Care Guide
Reed Canarygrass prefers moist soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It grows best in hardiness zones 4 to 9. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize it once a year in the spring. The plant does well in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil. Avoid over-fertilizing or over-watering as this can lead to disease.
Common Pests & Diseases
Reed Canarygrass is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including leaf spot, stem rust, and smut. It can also be affected by insects such as aphids, cutworms, and armyworms. Proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, can help prevent these issues. If necessary, treat with fungicides or insecticides.
Habitat
Reed Canarygrass is commonly found in wetlands, along streams and rivers, and in marshes. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as ditches and roadsides. The plant is used in erosion control, as a forage crop for livestock, and in landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Reed Canarygrass be grown in containers?
A: While Reed Canarygrass is typically grown in open areas, it can be grown in containers if provided with enough space and adequate care.
Q: Is Reed Canarygrass invasive?
A: Reed Canarygrass can be invasive in some areas, so it is important to check with local authorities before planting it.
Q: Can Reed Canarygrass tolerate drought?
A: Reed Canarygrass prefers moist soil and may not tolerate extended periods of drought.
Q: Is Reed Canarygrass toxic to animals?
A: Reed Canarygrass can be toxic to livestock if consumed in large quantities, so it is important to monitor grazing animals and provide other forage options.
Related Plants
- Lolium perenne (Perennial Ryegrass)
- Lolium multiflorum (Italian Ryegrass)
- Lolium temulentum (Darnel)
References
- “Reed Canarygrass.” USDA NRCS, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOAR4. Accessed 8 September 2021.
- “Reed Canarygrass.” Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States, https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.html?sub=3045. Accessed 8 September 2021.
- “Reed Canarygrass Management and Use.” University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension, https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/forage/reed-canarygrass-management-and-use/. Accessed 8 September 2021.
