Overview

Calamagrostis epigejos is a tufted grass like in the genus Calamagrostis, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Calamagrostis epigejos grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens.

About

Calamagrostis epigejos is a perennial grass that forms dense clumps and can reach heights of up to 2 meters. Its leaves are linear and strap-like, displaying a mid-green color and growing as tall as 1.4 meters. The flowering period extends from July to August, during which it produces narrow, dense panicles that range from 15 to 30 centimeters in length, exhibiting a yellowish-brown hue.

About the genus

Calamagrostis consists of sturdy perennial grasses that spread through rhizomes, producing clumps of narrow leaves. During the summer, upright stems develop dense, branched flowering panicles.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Calamagrostis

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Calamagrostis epigejos size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1-2 years
Suggested uses
Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Calamagrostis epigejos

Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich but well drained soil in full sun. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice
Pruning
For more information see our page on how to cut back deciduous grasses
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seeds outdoors or divide in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Calamagrostis epigejos?

Grow in humus-rich but well drained soil in full sun. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice.

Where is the best place to plant Calamagrostis epigejos?

Calamagrostis epigejos prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Calamagrostis epigejos need?

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

How do I prune Calamagrostis epigejos?

For more information see our page on how to cut back deciduous grasses.

How big does Calamagrostis epigejos grow?

Calamagrostis epigejos reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.

Is Calamagrostis epigejos hardy in the UK?

Calamagrostis epigejos has a UK hardiness rating of H6.

How do I propagate Calamagrostis epigejos?

Propagate by sowing seeds outdoors or divide in spring.