Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'KARL FOERSTER'

Feather reed grass is one of the few grass species that perform well in clay and wet soil. Karl Foerster is a hybrid variety (cross between c.arundinacea and c.epigejos) with tall and thin stems which can grow almost 2m tall and hold rich but slender panicles of bronze-red, fluffy flowers from early summer. The leaves are narrow, medium green and partly glossy.

It forms a compact, non-invasive clump, yet the seeds may produce some unwanted plants in small quantity under optimal soil conditions. The flowering stems make a beautiful cut flower but look best left alone as the dry inflorescences decorate the garden from June until spring.

Feather reed grass comes from wet and sunny locations of Europe and Russia, and will thrive under these conditions in humus rich soil of any pH and in full sun. In early spring cut it back to some 5-10 cm above soil level and make sure not to damage newly emerging stems. Hardy to about -30°C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 15-01-2014