Overview

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' is a grass in the genus Calamagrostis, part of the Poaceae family. Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, ornamental grass and ground cover. It is native to Hybrid species and originally from Europe and Asia.

About

Calamagrostis × acutiflora, called feather reed-grass, is a naturally occurring hybrid species of grass in the genus Calamagrostis, occasionally found in Europe and Asia. Its cultivar 'Karl Foerster' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Calamagrostis × acutiflora

About the genus

Calamagrostis is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family Poaceae, with about 260 species that occur mainly in temperate regions of the globe. Towards equatorial latitudes, species of Calamagrostis generally occur at higher elevations. These tufted perennials usually have hairless narrow leaves.

Wikipedia contributors, "Calamagrostis", CC BY-SA 4.0Calamagrostis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Calamagrostis

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
loam, sand, clay
Soil pH
acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
moist,well-drained
Exposure
sheltered, exposed
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass
Suggested uses
borders, ornamental grass, ground cover
Native to
Hybrid species, originally from Europe and Asia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam'

Cultivation
Plant in spring or autumn. Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soils and conditions. Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring.
Pruning
Cut back old foliage to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation
Division in spring or autumn.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam'?

Plant in spring or autumn. Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soils and conditions. Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring.

Where is the best place to plant Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam'?

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered and exposed positions.

What soil does Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' need?

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.

How do I prune Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam'?

Cut back old foliage to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Is Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' hardy in the UK?

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Overdam'?

Division in spring or autumn.

More in the Calamagrostis genus

Browse all Calamagrostis