Species Plains Reedgrass
yellow-white flowers on light-green stems and gray branches

Plains Reedgrass

Calamagrostis montanensis

Plains Reedgrass (Calamagrostis montanensis) is a tufted, cool-season perennial grass that is native to meadows and hillsides of North America. Its slender, erect stems can reach up to 5 feet in height and have light green foliage. The grass produces tiny, purplish-green flower spikes during the spring and early summer. The foliage turns yellow in the fall and winter. This hardy grass can tolerate occasional flooding and full sun exposure. Plains Reedgrass can be grown along borders of native ornamental grasses, in meadows, and as part of a naturalized garden. It provides food and nesting sites for many birds and wildlife.

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Feathertop should be watered thoroughly approximately every 7-10 days. The best way to know when to water is to check the soil. If the top inch is dry, it is time to water. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Feathertop should be watered at the base of the plant with either a watering can or a drip system. Avoid wetting the leaves as this can lead to fungal diseases. Depending on the climate, additional watering may be necessary to keep the plant healthy and vigorous during extended hot and dry periods.

sunlight

Feathertop (Calamagrostis epigeios) plants prefer full sun most of the day, ideally 8 hours or more. While young plants may tolerate partial shade, they will produce the best flower and foliage colour in full sun. Therefore, it is important to choose a location that receives full sunlight throughout the day for optimal growth and health. It is best to provide Feathertop plants with morning sun and overhead shade (preferably from deciduous trees) during the afternoon to reduce potential heat burn.

pruning

Feathertop can be pruned twice a year for optimal performance. The best times to prune Feathertop are in late spring and early fall. In late spring, remove any dead or weak foliage, as well as any overly long stems. This will encourage new, more productive growth in summer. In early fall, prune back any overgrowth or feathery stems that are no longer attractive. Pruning Feathertop should be kept to a minimum as it is generally an attractive foliage grass.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.