Phragmites

Description

Phragmites, also known as common reed, is a tall grass that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It is native to wetlands and is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. While it has been used for thatching roofs, making baskets, and as a food source for livestock, it is often considered as an invasive species due to its tendency to spread rapidly and outcompete native plants.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Monocots
Order	Poales
Family	Poaceae
Genus	Phragmites

Appearance

Phragmites has long, slender leaves that can grow up to 24 inches in length. Its flowers are purple or brown and appear in late summer. It has tall, stiff stems that can grow up to 0.5 inches in diameter. Its root system is extensive and can grow up to 6 feet deep.

Care Guide

Phragmites can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey, as long as it is moist. It requires full sun to grow and can tolerate drought conditions. It does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from occasional applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizer. It is hardy in zones 3 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Phragmites is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that causes yellow or orange pustules on the leaves. It can also be infested by aphids, which can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves.

Habitat

Phragmites is typically found in wetlands, such as marshes, swamps, and riverbanks. It can also grow in disturbed areas, such as ditches and roadside culverts. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe, where it can outcompete native plants and alter the ecology of wetland ecosystems.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Phragmites edible?

A: While Phragmites has been used as a food source for livestock, its seeds are not commonly consumed by humans due to their small size and low nutritional value.

Q: Can Phragmites be used for landscaping?

A: Phragmites can be used for landscaping in wet areas, such as around ponds or in rain gardens. However, it is important to use sterile cultivars to prevent it from becoming invasive.

Q: Is Phragmites harmful to wildlife?

A: Phragmites can provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and amphibians. However, its tendency to outcompete native plants can lead to a decrease in biodiversity.

Q: How can Phragmites be controlled?

A: Phragmites can be controlled through a variety of methods, including manual removal, herbicide treatment, and prescribed burning. However, it is important to use caution when removing Phragmites to avoid damaging the wetland ecosystem.

Related Plants

• Arundo donax
• Saccharum ravennae
• Calamagrostis canadensis
• Carex stricta

References

• United States Department of Agriculture. (2021). Plants Profile for Phragmites australis (common reed). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=phau2
• Ontario Invasive Plant Council. (n.d.). Phragmites australis. Retrieved from https://www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca/files/Phragmites_australis.pdf
• Michigan State University Extension. (2015). Control options for Phragmites australis (common reed). Retrieved from https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/control_options_for_phragmites_australis_common_reed