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Korean reed grass

Calamagrostis brachytricha

Common names:
Korean reed grass, short-haired reed grass

Content Detail

Korean reed grass is a non-native, warm season, clumping grass, so its most active growth occurs in summer. It will remain standing in winter providing winter interest in the garden.

  • Family (English) Grass
  • Family (botanic) Poaceae
  • Tree or plant type Grass, Perennial
  • Native locale Non-native
  • Size range Large plant (more than 24 inches)
  • Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
  • Hardiness zones Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8
  • Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil
  • Tolerances clay soil, Wet sites
  • Season of interest early winter, midwinter, late winter, midsummer, late summer, early fall, mid fall, late fall
  • Flower color and fragrance Pink
  • Shape or form Upright

Size and Form:

Korean reed grass is a warm-season, clumping grass with an upright habit. In leaf, it grows about 2 1/2 feet tall, rising to as much as 4 feet in flower.

Native geographic location and habitat:

This grass is native to Europe and Asia.

Leaf description:

The long slender leaves are 1/2 inch wide and up to 2 1/2 feet long. They are dark green in summer, yellow in the fall, and tan to buff in winter.

Flower description:

The tiny flowers are numerous and held in upright, open, fluffy clusters. Flower clusters open pinkish and develop a silvery cast. Flowering occurs from late summer into fall. 

Fruit description:

The small fruit (caryopsis or grains) form along the upright clusters that held the flowers. They mature to tan or buff for winter.

Plant care:

Best growth is obtained in a sunny site with a moist to wet soil. This plant will still bloom well in partial shade. It tolerates heavy clay soils. Since this grass remains attractive through winter, it should not be cut back until early spring, before new growth begins.  At that time, it can be cut down to the ground.

List of pests, diseases, and tolerances:

No serious problems.

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