Common Reed

(Phragmites australis subsp. australis:)

Common Reed (Phragmites australis subsp. australis:)

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Phragmites australis subsp. australis: image
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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Phragmites australis, commonly known as Common Reed, is a perennial grass that exhibits evergreen or semi-evergreen characteristics depending on the climate. It is native to a variety of wetland habitats including marshes, riverbanks, and edges of ponds and lakes across North America, Central Asia, South America, Tropical Africa, and Southeast Asia. This species can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) in height and is known for forming extensive reed beds that can cover large areas. The Common Reed displays a dense, dark purple panicle of flowers in late summer, which becomes greyer as silky hairs develop to aid in seed dispersal.

The plant is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and provide habitat for wildlife. It is often used in constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment and as a natural method for erosion control. Common Reed requires full sun for optimal growth and can tolerate a range of water conditions, from damp ground to standing water up to 3 feet deep. It is adaptable to various soil types with different drainage capabilities. However, it can become invasive outside its native range, outcompeting native vegetation and altering wetland ecosystems. Gardeners should be cautious about planting it in areas where it can spread uncontrollably.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 6-12 feet
  • Width: 3-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to marshes, riverbanks, and edges of ponds and lakes

Other Names

Common Names: Eurasian Common Reed , Reed Grass , Common Reedgrass , Giant Reedgrass , Ditch Reed , Phragmites , Giant Reed , Bous , Ghab , Qassab

Scientific Names: Phragmites australis , Phragmites phragmites , Cortaderia egmontiana , Phragmites communis var. flavescens , Phragmites australis var. stenophylla , Phragmites communis var. isiacus , Arundo australis , Cortaderia pilosa var. pilosa , Phragmites communis var. subnudiflorus , Phragmites vulgaris

GBIF Accepted Name: Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.