Common Reed: Everything You Need To Know About Phragmites
16.09.2023 - 06:51
/ gardeningknowhow.com
Phragmites or common reeds include native as well as introduced species of grasses. The non-native phragmites are outcompeting native vegetation and pushing out the native phragmites. Learn more about the differences between native and non-native phragmites.
Botanical name:Phragmites australis
Height: 7 to 15 feet (2 to 5 m)
Spread: 9 feet (3 m)
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil requirements: Moist to wet light, medium, or clay soil
Hardiness zones: USDA zones 4-10; UK zone 5
When to plant: Do NOT plant invasive subspecies australis. Plant native species in spring.
Common reed (Phragmites australis) is a grass with native and non-native varieties found in wetland areas, along stream and pond edges, lake shores, marshes, and low-lying ditches. It is important to learn the differences between the two species so you can eliminate the highly aggressive, non-native species on your property and take preventative measures in its spread.
The non-native species, Phragmites australis ssp. australis is extremely tall with blue-green leaves, a purplish flowerhead, and an invasive habit that reproduces by massive rhizome stands.
Native, beneficial phragmites such as Phragmites australis ssp americanus are being pushed out because of the invasive species. It is shorter with yellow-green leaves and an airy flowerhead.
Phragmites are perennial wetland grasses that produce plumes in late summer followed by seedheads. U.S. native species that were once widespread are now most populous in western states.
Are phragmites invasive? The introduced non-native phragmites are displacing the native grasses and other vegetation and are considered highly invasive. They cause changes to the ecosystem process, outcompete native aquatic plants, and