Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

 
Latin Name: Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Common Name: Karl Foerster Reed Grass
Mature Height (ft): 36-48"
Mature Width: 18-24"

Mature Shape

Erect clump forming ornamental grass.
Mulch: Organic or inorganic.

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Remarks

Karl Foerster feather reed grass is a cool season bunch grass one of the best ornamental grasses for a medium or high water-use area. In a low water-use area, it will take longer to reach mature height and width (the more water it gets, the bigger it'll get). Karl Foerster feather reed grass suffers in the xeric bed during the hotter, drier drought years and may die out.

This is the most erect ornamental grass and the first grass to plume out, usually in June. No known problems with this grass. This grass provides a good architectural element, mass several together. Stunning when it can be viewed backlit. The grass can be divided and transplanted after a few years when you cut it back at winter's end, if you wish.

Use in Garden

Medium to high water-use zones. Mixed beds or borders. Equally suited as an accent plant or used in swaths, groups or areas with other ornamental grasses.

Maintenance

Cut back before new growth starts to grow, usually end of February. Topdress with 1 inch of compost either annually or semi-annually.