Species Nuttal's Reed Grass

Nuttal's Reed Grass

Calamagrostis cinnoides auct. non

Nuttal's Reed Grass (Calamagrostis cinnoides auct. non) is an ornamental grass native to North America and the Midwest United States. This plant is also known as Fringed Reed Grass or Ozark Reed Grass. It is a tuft-forming perennial, reaching heights up to four (4) feet and has an upright growth habit. Its delicate foliage is narrow, green blades with both short and long hairs at the base of the leaves. It has feathery gray to white plumes that appear on long stems above the foliage in the late summer months. Nuttal's Reed Grass is a great choice for border plantings, rain gardens, and naturalizing areas – it's beautiful from spring through fall!

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Nuttal's Reed Grass should be watered 1 to 3 times per week. The frequency of water will depend on the temperature, humidity, soil type and exposure to sun. During the warmer months, the plant will require more frequent watering, while in the cooler months, watering needs will be less frequent. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil thoroughly and try to avoid getting the foliage wet. Allow the surface of the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During periods of extreme heat or drought, a deep watering on a 1 to 2 week basis can help make sure the plant is getting enough water.

sunlight

Nuttal's Reed Grass prefers full sun to partial shade with at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day. This grass does best in moist, well-drained soils and needs consistent watering, especially in periods of drought. Once established, Nuttal's Reed Grass is very tolerant of fluctuations in water and soil quality and can be grown with limited care. To make sure the plant gets the nutrients it needs, fertilize it twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer.

pruning

Nuttal's Reed Grass should be pruned at least once a year, during the early spring months. Pruning out any dead stems will help keep the plant healthy and promote vigorous growth. Cut away all dead and damaged stems, as well as any shoots that appear to be growing too densely. Pruning out a third of the old stems to the ground can also be beneficial. This will leave room for new growth and a more attractive plant. If the plant is growing in a restricted area, such as a container, it may be necessary to prune more often. Pruning should always be done with sharp, clean pruning shears.