Overview
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is a tufted grass like in the genus Calamagrostis, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, prairie planting and architectural.
About
This perennial grass forms dense clumps and features flat, arching foliage that can reach lengths of up to 90 cm. Its flowering panicles start as a rich bronze color, gradually transitioning to a lighter shade of brown as they mature.
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, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Architectural
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
- Cultivation
- Easy to grow in most moist, humus-rich, well-drained fertile soils, but will tolerate all but the poorest soils
- Pruning
- Cut back old stems to the ground in early spring before growth resumes
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in mid-spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a rust
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?
Easy to grow in most moist, humus-rich, well-drained fertile soils, but will tolerate all but the poorest soils.
Where is the best place to plant Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' need?
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' 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 to well-drained.
How do I prune Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?
Cut back old stems to the ground in early spring before growth resumes.
How big does Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' grow?
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' hardy in the UK?
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?
Propagate by division in mid-spring.