Feather Reed Grass: An Ornamental Grass for All Seasons

Introduction

Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) is one of the most versatile and attractive ornamental grasses available to gardeners and landscapers. This cool-season grass has gained immense popularity for its elegant appearance, low maintenance requirements, and year-round visual interest.

Appearance and Growth Habit

This clump-forming grass typically grows 3-5 feet tall with a spread of 2-3 feet. Its most striking feature is the feathery flower plumes that emerge in early summer, starting with a purplish hue before maturing to golden tan. The narrow, upright leaves maintain their green color throughout the growing season before turning golden in fall.

Popular Varieties

Several cultivars have become garden favorites:

• Karl Foerster - The most popular variety with strict vertical growth
• Overdam - Features variegated leaves with creamy margins
• Avalanche - Notable for its striking white-striped foliage

Growing Conditions

Feather Reed Grass thrives in USDA zones 4-9 and adapts well to various conditions:

• Sun: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade
• Soil: Grows in most soil types but prefers moist, well-drained conditions
• Water: Moderate water needs; more drought tolerant once established

Landscape Uses

This grass serves multiple purposes in landscape design:

• Excellent as a vertical accent in perennial borders
• Effective for creating privacy screens when planted in masses
• Works well in rain gardens and along water features
• Provides winter interest when left standing
• Useful for erosion control on slopes

Maintenance

One of Feather Reed Grass\'s greatest advantages is its low maintenance:

• Cut back to about 6 inches in late winter before new growth appears
• Division every 3-4 years maintains vigor
• Generally pest and disease free
• Deer resistant

Seasonal Interest

This grass provides year-round beauty:

• Spring: Fresh green foliage emerges
• Summer: Flower plumes appear and sway gracefully in the breeze
• Fall: Foliage turns golden while plumes persist
• Winter: Dried foliage and seed heads add texture to the winter landscape

Conclusion

Feather Reed Grass deserves its status as a landscape staple. Its architectural form, easy care nature, and four-season appeal make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether used as a specimen plant or in mass plantings, it adds movement, texture, and elegance to any garden setting. The Karl Foerster variety was even named Perennial Plant of the Year in 2001 by the Perennial Plant Association, cementing its reputation as one of the finest ornamental grasses available.