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Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

feather reed grass

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A stiff, erect habit is the defining feature of this grass, named after the famous German plantsman who introduced it to the public in the 1950s. Plant it en masse to form a feathery screen, or in small groups to add height and definition to a perennial border. It also looks good planted next to buildings. This is one of the earliest perennial grasses to get going, with shoots appearing in early spring, followed by flowers that are green first, then fade to buff.

How to care for Calamagrostis × acutiflora Karl Foerster:

Very low maintenance, it simply needs to be cut down to the ground in February. Don’t be tempted to chop it earlier, as its wheat-coloured stems add drama and strong winter presence to the garden.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1.8m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Slow growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

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RH30001063
9cm pot
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PL00000946
2 litre pot
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PL30007358
3 × 2 litre pots
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