'Karl Foerster' (Feather Reed Grass) has showy, feather plumes with striking, erect, wheat-colored seed heads. Upright habit, inflorescences are open and feathery when first flowering in June and constrict to narrow plumes by mid summer. This ornamental Grass is valued for its early bloom, vertical lines and ability to grow in wet soils. It is a slowly-spreading, clump-forming, cool season grass which features a slightly arching, slender clump of narrow, stiff, rich green leaves. Leaves produce little fall color, eventually turning tan in winter. In June, tightly-vertical flower stalks rise well above the foliage bearing purplish-green flowers which turn golden as the seeds mature in summer and eventually tan. Plant provides good continuing winter interest. Perennial Plant Of The Year 2001!
Size: #1 · Hardiness: Zones 5-9 Common: Feather reed grass · Botanical: Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' · Family: Poaceae Height: 6' · Spacing: 72" · Pests: No serious insect or disease problems. Deer Resistant. Bloomtime: Spring-Fall, remains standing through heavy snowfalls · Exposure: Full-Partial Sun Flower: Pinkish-purple flowers appear on long plumes Foliage: Medium Green, Erect Notes: Easily grown in average, medium wet to wet soil in full sun. Does well in heavy clay soils, unlike many of the other ornamental grasses. Prefers moist, rich soils which do not dry out. Blooms in light shade, and appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Cut clumps to the ground in late winter just before the new shoots appear. This grass will not self-seed in the garden because seeds are sterile. Ornamental Grasses are gaining in popularity all over the U.S. due to their undemanding nature and long lasting, year round beauty. There is nothing that adds such interesting forms, textures and movement to a garden, than with this diverse plant group. They can be planted along banks of ponds, incorporated into perennial gardens, grouped together, utilized as a ground cover along walkways, paths or on steep banks. They aren't fussy about soil requirements, are drought tolerant as well as insect and disease resistant. Planting instructions: Prefers a moist, well drained soil in a sunny position. It can tolerate light shade. Dig a hole large enough to hold the roots. Fill the hole with water and position the plant so the crown (where the root meets the stem) is just slightly below the soil line. Fill the hole with soil and water again. A slow release fertilizer may be used each spring, though it’s not necessary.