Overview

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) is a bushy grass like in the genus Calamagrostis, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, prairie planting, architectural, low maintenance and flower borders and beds.

About

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (feather reed grass 'Overdam') is a bushy, deciduous grass cultivar within the genus Calamagrostis, which belongs to the Poaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height in 2 to 5 years. This grass thrives in a variety of soil types and pH levels, preferring moist but well-drained or well-drained soils. It is suitable for full sun to partial shade and can be grown in both exposed and sheltered aspects, offering seasonal interest in summer and winter.

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
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Architectural, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v)

Propagation
Division in mid-spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to a rust

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v)?

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

What soil does Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) need?

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) 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 big does Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) grow?

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) hardy in the UK?

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v) has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Overdam' (v)?

Division in mid-spring.

More in the Calamagrostis genus

Browse all Calamagrostis