
Feather Reed Grass 'Karl Foerster'
Calamagrostis x acutiflora Karl Foerster
A robust and elegant ornamental grass, 'Karl Foerster' brings vertical interest and year-round beauty to any garden.
Size
Installation
About this plant
Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster', commonly known as Feather Reed Grass, is a highly acclaimed ornamental grass cherished for its stately, upright growth habit and feathery plumes. This celebrated cultivar forms neat clumps of vibrant green foliage in spring, providing a crisp architectural element. As summer progresses, dramatic, wheat-like flower stalks emerge, maturing to a beautiful golden-tan in fall and persisting through winter, offering superb seasonal interest and motion. Its enduring structure and low-maintenance nature make it an indispensable choice for contemporary landscapes, mass plantings, or as a striking vertical accent. It stands up well to urban conditions and provides excellent winter interest.
Care & maintenance
Feather Reed Grass 'Karl Foerster' is exceptionally easy to care for. Cut back old foliage to 6-12 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. No serious pest or disease issues. Divide clumps every 3-5 years if vigor declines.
Quick facts
- Type
- grass
- Mature height
- 3-6 feet
- Mature width
- 1.5-2.5 feet
- Sun
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Average to low water needs once established; tolerant of a range of soil types.
- Growth rate
- Medium to fast