Product Description
Calamagrostis brachytricha (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Korean Feather Reed Grass, Ornamental Grass, reed grass, foxtail grass.
If you think all Calamagrostis are like ‘Karl Foerster’, think again! This Asian native is the opposite of its European counterparts: it is a warm season grass that blooms from late summer through early fall.
Perhaps best of all, this grass is shade tolerant, a rare trait for a large flowering grass. This species occurs naturally in moist, deciduous woodlands and therefore is adapted to grow and bloom in partial shade. It also grows very well in full sun where the habit will be tighter and the flowering will be more profuse.
This grass forms an upright arching clump of ½” wide, glossy green leaves that are wider than the C. acutiflora types.
Late in the season, fluffy bottlebrush plumes are produced within and just above the foliage. They are purplish red when they first open and then age to greenish tan. Be sure to cut a few for dried bouquets as they remain open and feathery even when dried.
It occurs naturally in moist, deciduous woodlands and therefore is adapted to grow and bloom in partial shade. It also grows very well in full sun where the habit will be tighter and the flowering will be more profuse. Soil should be average to consistently moist. It will adapt to any type of soil from sand to clay. This plant will self-sow in moist, shady areas to a minor extent but it is easily managed. Divide clumps or move seedlings in spring to propagate.
Zones 4 to 9.
Full Sun to Part Shade.
Plants reach 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide;
Slow spreading, clump-forming, warm season ornamental grass.
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer - Early Fall
Deer Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall Color
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Easy To Grow, Attractive Foliage, Mass Planting
Calamagrostis brachytricha, also known as Korean feather reed grass, is a popular ornamental grass that has received the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit. This versatile plant is prized for its attractive foliage, graceful plumes, and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. This comprehensive guide will cover essential aspects of Calamagrostis brachytricha, including its growth characteristics, care requirements, companion plants, and native habitat.
Growth Characteristics Calamagrostis brachytricha is a warm-season, clump-forming grass that typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and a similar width. The foliage forms a dense mound of narrow, stiff, green leaves, reaching about 2 feet tall. In late summer, pinkish-tinged flower plumes emerge, rising well above the foliage clump to a height of 4 feet. These plumes mature to a light tan color as the seeds ripen and provide visual interest throughout fall and winter. The plumes can also be used in dried flower arrangements. As the seasons change, the foliage turns a yellowish-beige in the fall, while the stems take on a striking gold hue. It is a relatively slow-growing species, spreading gradually to form substantial clumps over time.
One of the unique characteristics of Calamagrostis brachytricha is its shade tolerance and late-season bloom time. Unlike many other ornamental grasses that require full sun and bloom earlier in the season, this species can thrive in partial shade and even full shade, with its blooms emerging in late summer. This makes it a valuable addition to woodland gardens or shady borders where other grasses might struggle.
Care Requirements Calamagrostis brachytricha is a low-maintenance grass that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including heavy clay. While it thrives in full sun, it appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates.
To maintain its appearance and promote healthy growth, cut the clumps to the ground in late winter just before new shoots appear. This will remove the old foliage and encourage fresh growth in the spring.
- Watering Calamagrostis brachytricha prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its first growing season. Water regularly, particularly during dry periods, to ensure optimal growth. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant.
- Fertilizing This grass is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release, medium-rate fertilizer applied in the spring is usually sufficient.
- Pests and Diseases Calamagrostis brachytricha is generally pest and disease-free. However, it is essential to monitor for potential issues such as aphids or rust.
- Tolerance Calamagrostis brachytricha is known for its tolerance to a variety of conditions. It can withstand extreme summer heat, making it suitable for warmer climates. It is also tolerant of black walnut, so it can be planted near walnut trees without any adverse effects. Additionally, it is tolerant of air pollution, making it a good choice for urban gardens. Finally, it exhibits salt tolerance, making it a suitable option for coastal gardens. It may not flower in its first year, so patience is key. This grass is also deer resistant.
Companion Plants Calamagrostis brachytricha pairs well with various plants in a meadow or prairie planting.
| Companion Plant | Benefits |
| Asters | Their vibrant blooms provide a beautiful contrast to the feathery plumes of the grass. |
| Coneflowers | These long-blooming perennials add a touch of wildflower charm to the planting. |
| Black-eyed Susans | Their cheerful yellow flowers create a sunny and vibrant display. |
| Veronica | These low-growing plants add a carpet of color to the foreground. |
| Yarrow | Their delicate foliage and colorful flower clusters complement the texture of the grass. |
| Salvia | These drought-tolerant plants add a touch of blue or purple to the planting. |
| Agastache | Their fragrant flowers and long blooming season attract pollinators. |
| Other Ornamental Grasses | Combining different grasses with varying heights, textures, and colors can create a dynamic and visually appealing landscape. |
Uses Calamagrostis brachytricha is a versatile ornamental grass that can be used in various ways in the landscape:
- Mass Plantings: When planted in masses, it creates a dramatic and textural effect, especially when its foliage and plumes sway in the breeze.
- Accents: Its upright form and attractive plumes make it an excellent accent plant in borders or among other perennials.
- Containers: It can be grown in containers to add height and texture to patios or balconies.
- Erosion Control: Its dense root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Rain Gardens: Its tolerance for moist to wet conditions makes it suitable for rain gardens.
- Cut Flowers: The plumes can be used in fresh or dried arrangements, adding a touch of natural beauty to floral designs.
Native Habitat Calamagrostis brachytricha is native to central and eastern Asia. It typically grows in moist open woods and at woodland edges. It is well-suited to temperate climates and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Calamagrostis brachytricha is a versatile and attractive ornamental grass that is well-suited to a variety of garden settings. Its shade tolerance, low-maintenance nature, and graceful plumes make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels. It is a valuable addition to any landscape, whether used in mass plantings, as an accent, in containers, or for erosion control. By following the care requirements outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Calamagrostis brachytricha thrives and adds a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your landscape for years to come.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
