Calamagrostis

( ka - la - ma - GROSS - tis )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennial grasses is also called Reed Grass, and includes sturdy, clumping grasses native to Eurasia. These grasses produce feathery plumes of flowers that are long-lasting and can also be used in cut flower arrangements. Cut back clumps low to the ground before new growth begins to rejuvenate for the next season.

calamagrostis Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Bouteloua are 2b-24. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

​Calamagrostis x acutiflora (Feather Reed Grass)
This hybrid species is known mainly through its evergreen to semi-evergreen varieties, which are listed and described below.
'Avalanche'
To 4 feet tall with white banding down the center of each leaf. Flower plumes rise 2 feet above the rest of the foliage, topping out at 6 feet tall, and start reddish-brown, maturing to golden.
'Karl Foerster' ('Stricta')
Forms an erect, arching clump of narrow bright green leaves that reach about 2-3 feet tall. Clumps spread to about as wide. Flower stems reach 6 feet tall and appear in late spring and summertime.
'Overdam'
Similar to 'Karl Foerster', except foliage is white-variegated. This variety needs partial shade in summertime in warmer regions.

Calamagrostis brachytricha (Fall-Blooming Red Grass)
This species is deciduous and forms a clump of upright, arching foliage up to 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Flower spikes appear in early summertime, rising about 1.5 feet over the rest of the foliage. Great grass for partial shade, and does well in container plantings.

Caring for calamagrostis

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 210, Calamagrostis
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