About
A vigorous reed grass to 3m in height, spreading by rhizomes and forming an extensive colony of erect, leafy, sturdy stems with drooping linear leaves which turn light brown in autumn, and terminal dark purple flowering panicles from late summer.
About the genus
Phragmites are vigorous rhizomatous perennial grasses with linear leaves and large feathery purple panicles of flowers in late summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like, Bogs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, moderately fertile, reliably moist soil in full sun. In riverside, lake or pond areas can be grown in large containers sunk in water to restrict growth and provides ideal habitats for rare and endangered birds. It needs ample space and has the potential to become a nuisance in favourable conditions if not managed well. See aquatic weeds for more information
PruningCut back in late autumn or winter
PropagationPropagate by division from early spring to early summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease- free