Species Blue Joint Reedgrass
orange-green foliage and stems

Blue Joint Reedgrass

Calamagrostis canadensis var. macouniana

Also Known As - Bluejoint
Blue Joint Reedgrass (Calamagrostis canadensis var. macouniana) is a blue-green tufted perennial grass native to North America. It typically grows in wet areas and can reach up to 3 feet tall. Its inflorescence is an open panicle of narrow, green-blue spikelets with silky hairs at the base and sometimes a purplish tint near the base. Its foliage is bluish-gray, often with a bit of purple. The leaves are thin and have an intense blue color with a slight sheen. Blue Joint Reedgrass is a popular ornamental grass for garden beds and wet areas, providing a beautiful contrast to green grasses. It is easy to care for and requires little water or fertilizer.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Water Blue Joint Reedgrass once a week during average weather conditions, providing approximately 1 inch of water each time. Increase the frequency and amount of water during hotter, drier conditions. During the hottest days of the summer, water as much as possible to keep the soil evenly moist. If possible, irrigate only early in the morning so as to allow the grass time to dry out during the day.

sunlight

Blue Joint Reedgrass typically thrives with full sunlight for 6-7 hours a day. If the temperatures and/or sunlight exposure is extreme, this species may benefit from partial sun or shade. While Blue Joint Reedgrass may do alright in lower levels of light, it typically performs best when under direct sunlight.

pruning

Blue Joint Reedgrass should be pruned every 2 to 3 years, preferably in late winter or early spring. In late winter or early spring, cut back the stalks from a few inches above the ground, removing any dead or broken blades. If needed, remove any dead flowering spikes at the same time to encourage new growth. This will ensure that the plant remains vibrant and healthy and will help it grow dense and upright. Pruning will also help the plant produce more attractive foliage and flowers.