Plumes emerge in June . . .		. . . Then start drying out to classic look in July.

Plume Picture

Botanical Name: Calamagrostis x acutifolia 'Karl Foerster'

Family: Poaceae (Grass)

Common Name: Karl Foerster's Feather Reed Grass, Feather Reed Grass

Latin: Calamagrostis (kal-ah-mah-GROS-tis) acutiflora (ah-KYOO-tih-flor-ah) c. = Greek kalamos (reed) and agrostis (a kind of grass) "reed of the field", a. = "sharp (pointed) flower"

Description: A columnar, cool season, medium-sized, June blooming ornamental grass, with green-pink-purple plumes, great winter effect, and vertical architectural lines. Popular worldwide! It is one of the first grasses to come out of winter dormancy. The plumes appear in June. The distinctive vertical lines it gives to the garden is a real asset. This grass looks great in several clumps, and makes a great accent or background plant. Plants in containers make attractive specimens and survive most winters without protection. Horticulturist Karl Foerster (d. 1971).

Zone: 4a

Origin: Hybrid cross (Foerster), Germany

Leaf Blade (wxl): 1/4 x 24

Foliage (wxh): 32 x 32, Arching - Arches up and out proportionally (bush-like)

Plume (hxlxw): 72 x 9.00 x 2.50, Upright - Plumes grow vertically in a uniform columnar form

Sun: 1/2 to Full Sun, Will Fail If Not Enough Sun

Moisture: Well drained, tolerates all, water in dry weather

Foliage Color - Summer: Green, Medium Fall: Tan/Light Brown Winter: Tan/Light Brown

Space: 30-48"

Texture:

Habit: Upright columnar