Calamagrostis x acutiflora

Calamagrostis is a genus consisting of about 250 species of cool season grasses. Calamagrostis x acutiflora, commonly called Feather Reed Grass and is a hybrid resulting from a cross between two species native to Europe and Asia. Feather Reed Grass is an ornamental grass with clumps of slender, wiry leaves 18 to 36 inches tall and loosely feathered, purplish plumes on stems that rise to 5 feet high. The plumes appear in early summer and gradually turn to narrow, vertical, buff-colored plumes by late summer. The plumes remain attractive through most of the winter and make good sources for fresh or dry arrangements. The plant has a fine texture, stands erect from a narrow clump of foliage, and can be useful as a vertical accent plant.

The plant grows rapidly in well-drained, fertile soil, that does not dry out but will tolerate heavy clay to poor soil and dry to wet sites. It blooms best in light shade, especially afternoon shade that mitigates hot summers. However, as the shade increases, the flowers and erectness of the foliage diminish. It is a good container plant, but if planted in the ground, does not produce viable seed and will not become invasive. To ensure good growth in the spring, you should cut the clumps back to the ground in late winter. Feather Reed Grass is also deer resistant. 

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for rust, particularly after prolonged rainy periods.