Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' – Feather Reed Grass

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' – Feather Reed Grass

Arguably the most beloved ornamental grass in cultivation, Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' has earned its place as a garden classic through sheer reliability and year-round beauty. In late spring, feathery pink-tinged plumes emerge above a neat, strongly upright clump of rich green foliage and gradually age to warm golden tan — standing tall and architectural through winter long after most perennials have faded. Its vertical form provides bold structure in mixed borders, makes an outstanding screening plant, and pairs beautifully with nearly everything. Deer resistant, adaptable to a wide range of soils, and easy to grow.

Key Features:

• Perennial; strongly upright clump-forming habit; semi-evergreen
• Deer resistant; drought tolerant once established
• Feathery pink-tinged plumes aging to golden tan; outstanding four-season interest
• Bold architectural presence; excellent screening and border plant
• Tolerates clay, heavy soils, and occasional wet conditions
• Adaptable to full sun and part shade
• One of the most widely planted ornamental grasses in the world

Growing Details:
Height: 3–4 ft (foliage) / 5–6 ft (flower) | Spread: 2–3 ft
Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade | Water: Moderate
Bloom time: Late Spring–Summer | Bloom color: Pink-tinged to golden tan
USDA Hardiness Zone: 4–9