Common reed - Phragmites australis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Control)

Common reed

Common reed (Phragmites australis) is a perennial flowering grass that is considered highly invasive. Common reed has thick roots and rhizomes that spread underground. Each plant produces thousands of seeds. The rapid growth of this species upsets the natural ecological balance by overwhelming native species, destroying habitats, threatening wildlife and increasing the potential for fires.

Scientific classification

Species

Common reed (Phragmites australis)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 3 m

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Brown

Leaf Color

10 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Purple, Red, Brown, Black

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Common reed

Attributes of Common reed

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, common reed flourishes during spring, developing robust, thick stems and extensive root systems. This speed influences the production of copious, long, narrow leaves and towering flower stems that can reach remarkable heights. Transient seasonal variations exist, but spring marks common reed's most pronounced proliferation, prompting horticulturalists to manage its aggressive colonizing tendencies.

Distribution of Common reed

Distribution Map

Common reed is a widely distributed plant found across most continents in temperate, tropical, and subtropical zones. It is native to diverse ecosystems in major regions such as Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. While cultivated in certain areas, common reed has also expanded beyond its native range to places where it is sometimes thought to be invasive. In those regions, common reed may have an impact on ecosystems by potentially altering habitats. Its robust growth can adapt to a variety of climates which has contributed to its widespread presence.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shallow water

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Protection

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Weed Control

Common reed is a tall grass weed growing widely across the United States and Canada. Its habitats include shorelines, riverbanks, and meadows. It is difficult to eliminate once rooted, and so not suitable for planting in small areas. It appears on state invasive species lists or laws in much of the eastern United States and Alaska, and state law in several western states from Colorado and Utah to Idaho and Washington. The grass displaces native species, blocks sunlight to the surrounding community, and increases fire potential. For control, cut stems below the lowest leaf. For large patches, cutting the perimeter prevents expansion.

How to Control It

The best season to manage common reed is generally in the late winter to early spring before new growth begins. It is crucial to control the plant before it reaches the flowering stage to prevent seed dispersal.

Hand pulling: Remove common reed by grasping the stems firmly at the base and pulling them out with a steady motion to get as much of the root system as possible.
Mowing: Cut common reed down to ground level with a sharp blade to weaken the plant and repeat regularly to prevent regrowth.
Mulching: Cover the ground around common reed with a thick layer of organic material, like wood chips or straw, to block sunlight and suppress new shoots.
Water level management: If common reed is growing near a water body, adjusting water levels can drown the roots or expose them to air, hindering the plant's growth.
Dense planting: Cultivate other plants densely around common reed to outcompete it for resources and limit its spread.

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Quickly Identify Common reed

Tall perennial grass reaching 6-13 feet (1.8-4 meters) with erect, sturdy stems.

Broad, lance-shaped leaves up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide, grey-green in color.

Feathery flower spikes in late summer, purplish turning tan or beige.

Vigorous rhizome system forming dense stands in soggy soils or standing water.

Distinctive fluffy seedheads with gray fruits dispersed by wind and water.

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Care Guide for Common reed

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common reed thrives in wetlands and requires high moisture, thriving in humid conditions and tolerating flooding. Watering twice a week mimics its natural habitat's moisture. Commonly found outdoors, common reed benefits from rainwater for supplemental hydration.

Propagation: The best times to propagate common reed are spring and autumn, with division as the preferred method. Propagation is straightforward, and successful growth is marked by new shoots and root formation. Ensuring adequate moisture and sunlight is crucial for optimal development.

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