Diamond Grass

Calamagrostis arundinacea (ka-la-ma-GROSS-tis uh-run-din-NAYsee-uh)

Family: Poaceae Non-native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Korean feather reed grass is an ornamental, warm-season grass with an upright, arching habit. It slowly spreads in clumps with leaves that are up to 3 feet long and 0.5 inches wide, glossy, lanceolate, and medium-green. In the late summer, pink-tinted plumes appear atop the stems, reaching a height of up to 4 feet. The plumes mature to a light tan as the seeds ripen, but tend to disintegrate by early winter. This plant is native to Europe and Asia and is a member of the grass family (Poaceae). The genus name, Calamagrostis , is derived from two Greek words: kalamos, meaning reed, and agrostis, meaning a kind of grass. The specific epithet, arundinacea , is Latin for "reed-like." Prefers full sun, but in hot summer climates, afternoon shade is recommended. It thrives in medium to wet soils and also performs well in heavy clay soils, which distinguishes it from other ornamental grasses and makes it a prime choice for North Carolina. Soils should be kept moist and not allowed to dry out. To ensure good growth in the spring, cut the grass clumps to the ground in late winter before the new shoots appear. This ornamental grass spreads by rhizomes and is best propagated by division. The Korean feather grass has a mounding habit, growing up to 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. It may be used near lakes, ponds, and streams. It is also salt spray-tolerant and could be used in coastal landscapes to prevent erosion and provide windbreak. Consider using it as an ornamental in a mass planting, in groups, or as an accent. The grass remains open and feathery when dry. making it suitable for fresh or dry arrangements Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 57 attributes.