Overview & Description

Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’) is an award-winning, clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its strikingly upright habit and year-round beauty. Its narrow, dark green foliage forms a tidy, arching mound. In early summer, it produces tall, narrow, feathery plumes in soft pinkish-green that mature to shimmering golden wheat, standing well above the foliage. These showy seed heads persist through winter, providing elegant movement, texture, and interest in the landscape.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a strongly upright, vase-shaped, clumping growth habit. It is a fast-growing perennial grass, typically reaching a mature size of about 3 to 5 feet in height (with flower plumes reaching 4 to 6 feet) and a spread of 2 to 3 feet. It does not self-seed, making it a tidy garden choice.

Additional Notes

It blooms from early summer to fall, with plumes that are excellent for cutting. Hardy to Zone 3, it is adaptable, low-maintenance, and thrives in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. It tolerates clay soil, urban conditions, and is deer and rabbit resistant. An outstanding choice for adding vertical accents, borders, mass plantings, or winter interest where elegant form and reliable performance are desired.