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Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
feather reed grass
A stiff, erect habit is the defining feature of this grass, named after the famous German horticulturist who introduced it...
Plant description
Plant Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' 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 first, then fade to buff.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Calamagrostis × acutiflora Karl Foerster:
Space the plants about 60-90cm (2-3ft) apart to allow for their upright growth habit. After planting, water regularly until established. Once settled, this grass is moderately drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
In February, cut the stems down to ground level to encourage fresh growth in spring (avoid cutting earlier, as the tall, wheat-coloured stems provide striking visual interest and structural presence in the winter garden). Applying a layer of mulch in spring will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Please note:
GOES WELL WITH
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