Karl Foerster feather reed grass
Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Perennial Plant of the Year 2001; MBG Plant of Merit 2002
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size3 to 6 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Pinkish-purple
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk, silt
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
'Karl Foerster' feather reed grass (Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') is a grass for borders, accents, privacy screens, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet soil of most types. Deer and rabbits tend to pass it by. It grows fast and reaches 35 to 71 inches tall, so it works well as a tall screen. Birds visit it, and it tolerates drought.
Pairs well with Magnus coneflower, Sedge, and Chokeberry.