Feather Reed Grass
calamagrostis arundinacea
Also known as: ["Reed Canary Grass","Poa arundinacea"]
Overview
A perennial grass with upright, slender stems and feathery flower heads that turn from green to golden-brown in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Calamagrostis |
| Botanical Name: | Calamagrostis arundinacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: mixed borders, meadows, or as a specimen plant in garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates more shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
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 during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base of the plant to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged; adjust frequency based on rainfall and temperature.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging; enrich soil with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C) in winter.
Monitor soil temperature; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost in early spring and late fall.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges in spring.
Propagation
Methods
Division is the most reliable method; can also be propagated from seed in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with sharp tools.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when temperatures are mild and plants are not in active growth.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seed germination; partial shade for young plants.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost; can also use perlite or sand for better aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seed propagation to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seed: germination in 2–4 weeks, establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or spade, gloves, watering can.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; sow seeds shallowly; keep seedlings moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth; thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in late winter; remove dead/damaged stems; thin crowded growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a container with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required as this is a perennial grass grown in the ground; if grown in containers, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water slowly and deeply to saturate the root zone, ensuring water penetrates 6–8 inches; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks unless conditions are very dry.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate sand or perlite for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause dieback of foliage; roots can be damaged if soil freezes without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or turn brown; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalamagrostis arundinacea is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCalamagrostis arundinacea is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCalamagrostis arundinacea is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Calamagrostis arundinacea grow?
A: It typically reaches 3–5 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it invasive?
A: No, it is not considered invasive in most regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
