Calamagrostis acutiflora Karl Foerster

available mid May

Calamagrostis acutiflora Karl Foerster photo courtesy of Walters Gardens
Feather Reed Grass

About This Grass

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is an extremely reliable and highly recommended grass that forms attractive strongly upright clumps. The deep green, lustrous foliage emerges early and lasts well into the winter. The feathery plumes have a purple tone when they first emerge and then, as the flower heads mature, they take on a golden tone and look like shafts of wheat. This grass is very versatile in the landscape where it can be used a single accent plant, grouped or mass planted. Because of its tolerance for wet sites it works well in moist low spots or along the edge of a pond. Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' was selected as the Perennial Plant of the Year 2001.

  • Height: 91 - 152 cm (36-60 in)
  • Spread: 60 - 76 cm (24-30 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: zone 4
  • Sun or Shade: Full sun to mostly sunny
  • Bloom Time: summer to late fall
  • Leaf Colour: dark green
  • Bloom Colour: pinkish turning bronze
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits
  • Nature Attraction: birds

Growing and Maintenance Tips

'Karl Foerster ' prefers a moist rich soil that does not dry out. It will tolerate clay and wetter sites. Cut it back early in the spring before new growth begins. Division can be done in the spring or late summer.

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