Cannomois grandis, commonly known as Bell Reed, is an evergreen perennial that resembles a large grass or reed, native to the fynbos and mountainous regions of South Africa. It can achieve a substantial size, growing to a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters) and a width of 3-15 feet (0.9-4.6 meters), with a clumping habit that creates dense stands. The plant features robust, bamboo-like stems and feathery, plume-like inflorescences that are reddish-brown in color, adding a unique texture to the landscape. The flowering season typically occurs in the summer months, and while the flowers are not particularly showy, they do contribute to the plant’s overall ornamental value.

Bell Reed is valued for its architectural form and the vertical interest it adds to gardens. It is often used in large-scale plantings, such as in public parks or as a screen or backdrop in residential gardens. Cannomois grandis thrives in full sun and requires medium to high amounts of water, making it suitable for riparian plantings or areas with consistent moisture. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. While it is relatively low maintenance, it may require occasional pruning to remove old foliage and promote new growth. Gardeners should be aware that in some environments, it can become quite large and may require space to spread.CC BY-SA 4.0