| Description | Karl Forester Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis ) is a tall, medium spreading grass, that is totally hardy to Zone #5. A slight breeze will set the stems in motion, adding movement to the landscape. Karl is as common in the landscape as Stella. |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | (ka-la-mo-GROSS-tis) |
| Plant Type | Grass Ornamental |
| Hardiness Zone | 4-9 |
| Sunlight | full |
| Moisture | average |
| Soil & Site | Grows best in well drained rich soil, but tolerates average. |
| Flowers | The loose inflorescence starts pale pink fading to a golden tan and extremely long lasting. They are sterile so there is no chance of this grass becoming invasive. Flowers will last along time in fresh and dried arrangements. |
| Leaves | Deep green shiny narrow leaves may droop in heavy rains but they will soon regain their vertical growth habit. |
| Dimensions | 5 feet tall by 18-24" spread, tight vertical growth habit, space 18-24" |
| Maintenance | As with most grasses you have the choice of cutting them to the ground in the fall or in the spring. I prefer the spring because of winter interest. When cutting back in the spring make sure you don't cut the new green growth at the base |
| Propagation | division |
| Cultivar Origin | Calamagrostis "Karl Foerster" is reported to be a natural cross between Calamagrostis epigejos and Calamagrostis arundinacea. Introduced into the trade in 1950 by Karl Foerster, but had been around since 1939. Imported to the USA in 1964 from Denmark. |
| Author's Notes | If you are worried about trying ornamental grasses, this is probably one of the easiest to grow. I have used this with success for many years in Zone #5. |
| Notes & Reference | Perennial Plant Associations pamphlet "Perennial Plant of the Year 2001", #222-The Encyclopedia of Grasses for Livable Landscapes (Rick Darke) |
Cart
