Reed canary grass
phalaris arundinacea
Also known as: ["reed canary grass","reed canarygrass","reed canary-grass"]
Overview
A tall, perennial grass species native to Europe, Asia, and North America, known for its aggressive growth and ability to form dense stands in wetlands and disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Phalaris |
| Botanical Name: | Phalaris arundinacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: wetland edges, pond margins, or water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; tolerates clay but prefers well-drained conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot or dry conditions
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow watering.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; avoid compacted soil; ensure consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) when established.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; water before fertilizing to prevent root shock; use a fertilizer with micronutrients for balanced growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid until roots form.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–4 weeks, full plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and shoots; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead stems to the base; thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and appearance; control spread by removing excess rhizomes.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sharp knife.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage; ensure rhizomes are not overcrowded.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; control spread by dividing rhizomes during repotting.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; continue until water drains from the bottom of the container or soil is saturated.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and fall; increase to twice weekly in summer; reduce frequency in winter unless soil is dry.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat; leaf drop or frost damage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use evaporative cooling methods like misting.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrient levels; apply fertilizer at recommended rates; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in late fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Phalaris arundinacea due to the tremorgenic mycotoxins present in the plant. Ingestion can result in severe neurological damage and systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Phalaris arundinacea can lead to severe neurological symptoms due to the presence of tremorgenic mycotoxins. These toxins disrupt normal brain function, causing seizures and other serious health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhalaris arundinacea contains tremorgenic mycotoxins that can cause severe neurological and physiological effects upon ingestion. These toxins interfere with neurotransmitter function, leading to convulsions, tremors, and other systemic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Reed canary grass invasive?
A: Yes, it is highly invasive in many regions and can outcompete native vegetation in wetland ecosystems.
Q: Does Reed canary grass require much maintenance?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives with minimal care.
Q: Can Reed canary grass be used for wildlife habitat?
A: Yes, it provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and insects.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
