Wood Small-Reed

(Calamagrostis epigejos)

Wood Small-Reed (Calamagrostis epigejos)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Calamagrostis epigejos image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Calamagrostis epigejos, commonly known as Wood Small-Reed, is a deciduous perennial grass native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and riparian zones across Eurasia and Africa. It typically grows to a height of 1.5 to 2 meters and spreads via an extensive rhizome system. The foliage is a medium green, and the plant forms dense clumps. Its inflorescence is notable for its rich brown color, with flowers forming dense, narrow spikes that can be 25–35 centimeters long, appearing in late summer.

Wood Small-Reed is valued for its architectural form and the textural contrast it provides in garden settings. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as well as in borders and as a screen. This grass is appreciated for its low water requirements and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, from clay to loam, provided they have medium drainage. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can become invasive due to its vigorous rhizome growth, so its spread should be monitored. In regions where it is known to be invasive, its use should be avoided or carefully managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and riparian zones across Eurasia and Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Bushgrass, Chee Reedgrass, Feathertop Reed Grass, Bjerg-Rørhvene, Land-Reitgras, Calamagrostide Commune, Calamagrostide Épigéios, Calamagrostis Commun, Roseau Des Bois, Duinriet

Scientific Names: , Calamagrostis epigejos, Agrostis epigejos, Calamagrostis epigejos var. epigejos, Calamagrostis epigejos subsp. meinshausenii, Calamagrostis epigejos subsp. glomerata, Calamagrostis epigejos var. capensis, Calamagrostis glomerata, Calamagrostis rigens, Calamagrostis epigeios subsp. densiflora

GBIF Accepted Name: Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth