Reed canary grass - Phalaris arundinacea (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Control)

Reed canary grass

Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is a plant species native to Europe, Asia, North America and North Africa. Reed canary grass has a wide range of uses. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant or its biomass is burned for fuel.

Scientific classification

Species

Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

2 m

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

Green, White, Variegated

Leaf Color

1 cm to 4 cm

Flower Size

Deciduous, Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Reed canary grass

Attributes of Reed canary grass

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, reed canary grass, during its growing season in spring, summer, and fall, exhibits a speedy expansion in leaf production and height increase. This swiftly culminates in a dense flood of leaves, often reaching up to 9 feet by late fall. Each season, the notable surge in growth is briefly tempered during the hot, dry spells of summer but is quickly regained with cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall. The pattern, reflective of reed canary grass's adaptation to varied climates, makes it a formidable competitor, capable of outpacing slower-growing plants.

Distribution of Reed canary grass

Distribution Map

Reed canary grass has a broad native range that encompasses major regions of Europe and parts of Asia. It has been introduced to various continents, including South America, Africa, and Oceania, displaying a wide-reaching global presence. Widely cultivated, reed canary grass has adapted to numerous environments. In certain areas where it is non-native, reed canary grass is sometimes thought to be potentially invasive and may have an impact on local ecosystems, though the extent varies regionally. Its substantial distribution highlights its ecological adaptability and the need for careful management in diverse habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wet places, shallow water

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Perseverance

Name Story

Reed canary grass: It is a tall, perennial bunchgrass that commonly grows along the margins of lakes and streams and in wet open areas. Since it looks very similar to reed, it is called reed canary grass.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Reed canary grass, including the following common varieties :

Reed canary grass 'Feesey'

Weed Control

Reed canary grass is considered to be native to many temperate regions worldwide. In the United States, it is listed as invasive by 13 states. It spreads aggressively, and rapidly forms dense stands, especially in wetlands where it can spread easily by rhizome fragments. It has been used for ground cover, fodder, and water purification and has the potential to be used as a source of biomass. Reed canary grass can be controlled by mowing multiple times throughout the growing season, hand removal, covering with black plastic for at least one growing season, and/or herbicide.

How to Control It

For reed canary grass, the best time to manage its growth is during early spring, before it forms dense mats and goes to seed. Controlling reed canary grass early on prevents it from outcompeting native plants and turning into an invasive weed.

Hand Pulling: Begin when the soil is moist to ease root removal. Grasp the base of reed canary grass and pull gently to remove the entire root system.
Mowing: Before reed canary grass goes to seed, mow the area to prevent spreading. Repeat the mowing process periodically to weaken the plants.
Smothering: Cover the area with a thick layer of mulch or use landscape fabric to block sunlight, which will suppress reed canary grass's growth.
Controlled Grazing: Employ animals like sheep or goats in moderation to feed on reed canary grass, which can naturally control its expansion.
Cultivation Limitation: To keep reed canary grass managed when grown intentionally, continually trim the edges of the planting area and divide it yearly to prevent overgrowth.

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Quickly Identify Reed canary grass

Height ranges from 6 to 9 feet (180-275 cm), towering over many other plants.

Distinctive reed-like appearance with broad, blade-like leaves and tough, hollow stems.

Flowers in tight panicles, greenish-white to pinkish, pyramid-shaped, 0.08 inch (2 mm) in size.

Leaves measure 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) long, with longitudinal white stripes and arching habit.

Smooth green stem, can grow up to 6.5 feet (200 cm) tall, sturdy, fibrous quality.

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Care Guide for Reed canary grass

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Reed canary grass flourishes in wetlands and waterways, requiring consistent moisture. Water twice weekly, ensuring soil is damp but not waterlogged. Thriving outdoors, it benefits from rain and high humidity, with hydration crucial for its growth and balance between moisture and drainage.

Fertilize: For reed canary grass, use mulch or compost for nutrients and moisture retention. Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer with a half-inch layer to avoid root burn. Benefits include growth and stress resilience, adjusted by growth stages. Apply evenly, monitoring soil fertility to prevent overfertilization.

Pruning: Reed canary grass, a vigorous perennial grass, necessitates early spring pruning to manage growth. Cutting stems to the ground promotes health and prevents invasive spreading, ensuring a more manageable size. Regular pruning enhances the plant's vigor and resilience, according to reliable horticultural sources.

Propagation: Reed canary grass is best propagated through division in spring or autumn, yielding new shoots and robust roots. Successful propagation requires maintaining proper soil moisture to support healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot reed canary grass every 2-3 years in spring, using a pot slightly larger than the root ball to prevent overwatering. After repotting, keep reed canary grass well-watered for root establishment. This resilient perennial grass forms large clumps and requires ample space to thrive.

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