(CALAMOGROSTIS) Karl Foerster Reed Grass
‘Karl Foerster’ is the most popular of the hybrid feather reed grasses sold in commerce today. It is noted for its narrow-vertical growth of bright green leaves to 3’ tall and 2’ wide and feathery plumes of summer-blooming pink to purple tinged flowers on narrow upright stalks rising well above the foliage to 5’ tall. 2001 Perennial Plant of the Year Award.
Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun. Blooms well in light shade, and actually appreciates some part afternoon shade in hot summer climates, but generally tends to produce fewer flowers and develop floppier foliage as the amount of shade increases. Prefers rich, consistently moist soils that do not dry out. Reportedly does well in heavy clay soils, unlike many other kinds of ornamental grasses. Cut clumps to the ground in late winter just before the new spring shoots appear.
PRODUCT INFO
#2 Container
Zone: 5 to 9
Height: 3.00 to 5.00 feet
Spread: 1.50 to 2.50 feet
Bloom Time: May to February
Bloom Description: Pinkish-purple
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium to wet
Maintenance: Low
Suggested Use: Rain Garden
Flower: Showy, Good Cut, Good Dried
Leaf: Good Fall
Attracts: Birds
Other: Winter Interest
Tolerate: Erosion, Wet Soil, Black Walnut, Air Pollution
GARDEN USES
Mass, group or specimen. Excellent vertical accent for borders and for narrow spaces in the landscape. Also effective in moist low spots or on pond/stream banks.
PLANT OF MERIT
Plants of Merit are plants selected for their outstanding quality and dependable performance for the lower Midwest. They grow consistently well.
Plants of Merit Selection Criteria
•Easy to grow and maintain
•Not known to be invasive in our area
•Resistant or tolerant to diseases and insects
•Has outstanding ornamental value
•Reasonably available to purchasePROBLEMS
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for rust, particularly after prolonged rainy periods.
SHIPPING INFO
Products can not be shipped. For local delivery and installation only.