Common Reed Sweet-grass
glyceria maxima
Also known as: ["Water Rats","Reed Sweet-grass"]
Overview
A tall, perennial grass species native to Europe and Asia, often found in wetlands and along riverbanks.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Glyceria |
| Botanical Name: | Glyceria maxima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: Wetland gardens, pond edges, or containers with constant water access
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Moist to wet; tolerates waterlogged soil but requires good drainage if grown in containers.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with high organic matter; suitable for bog or aquatic conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently if plant is spreading aggressively.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in warmer climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, watering every 2–3 days during active growth
Maintain even soil moisture; avoid waterlogging; water at soil level to prevent leaf wetness.
Soil
Rich, loamy soil that retains moisture
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; amend with organic matter for fertility; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Thrives in 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but may struggle above 85°F (29°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant and water thoroughly.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix or water for stem cuttings; coarse sand or perlite for rhizome division.
Hormone
Optional for stem cuttings; not necessary for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks for cuttings; rhizomes establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, moist medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; ensure medium stays moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy node; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance; control spread if invasive.
Tools
Sharp pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; thin overcrowded stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial to refresh soil and control spread.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is saturated but not waterlogged; ensure excess water drains away; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; water deeply 2–3 times per week during growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may become dormant or die back in freezing temperatures; roots can rot in waterlogged soil during cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; ensure well-draining soil; move containers indoors or to a sheltered spot if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or turn yellow; growth may slow; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGlyceria maxima is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGlyceria maxima is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known substances that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGlyceria maxima is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a grass species commonly found in wetlands and does not produce known toxic compounds.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Glyceria maxima suitable for garden ponds?
A: Yes, it thrives in wet conditions and is often used in water gardens.
Q: Does Glyceria maxima require frequent pruning?
A: Minimal pruning is needed; remove dead foliage in late winter.
Q: Can Glyceria maxima be invasive?
A: Yes, it can spread aggressively in suitable habitats and may require containment.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Keep soil consistently moist, |
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