Feather Reed Grass

Calamagrostis x acutiflora Karl Foerster

Position: sun
Soil: dry or wet, well-drained soil.
Rate of growth: fast-growing.
Flowering period: early summer-autumn
Hardiness: fully hardy
Pruning: n/a

A stiff, erect habit is the defining feature of this grass, named after the famous German plantsman who introduced it to the public in the 1950s. Plant it en masse to form a feathery screen, or in small groups to add height and definition to a perennial border. It also looks good planted next to buildings. This is one of the earliest perennial grasses to get going, with shoots appearing in early spring, followed by flowers that are green at first, then fade to buff.

Garden care
Very low maintenance, Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ simply needs to be cut down to the ground in February. Don’t be tempted to chop it earlier, as its wheat-coloured stems add drama and strong winter presence to the garden.