Ornamental grassesCalamagrostis x acutiflora
Feather Reed Grass
Feather Reed Grass is an elegant, stiffly upright ornamental grass with narrow, plume-like flower heads that appear in summer and fade to beige in autumn. Its compact, columnar silhouette makes it perfect as a vertical accent in borders and as a repeating element in modern gardens.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 100–180 cm
- Spread
- 50–75 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–9
- Family
- Poaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- beige
- Wildlife value
- birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun or partial shade in ordinary garden soil. Adaptable, tolerating both dry and moist conditions. No fertiliser needed. Water regularly in the first year. Forms neat clumps and does not spread aggressively.
Pruning tips
Cut back old foliage and plumes in late winter or early spring (February-March) to about 15 cm above ground. Leave plumes standing all winter for structure. Division is seldom needed but possible in spring.
Good companions
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
PerennialsRudbeckia fulgida
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan blooms from July through October with radiant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. The plant is virtually indestructible, spreads gradually, and suits large borders and prairie-style gardens. After flowering, the seed heads provide food for birds.