Feathered Reed Grass

[Calamagrostis](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/calamagrostis), commonly called feather reed grass, is a genus of clump-forming ornamental grasses with narrow leaves and upright, feathery flower plumes. The foliage and flower stems add vertical structure and fine texture to borders, prairie-style plantings, and mixed grass groups; plume colors and mature size vary by species and cultivar. ## Garden use Use a selected species or cultivar as a backdrop, in a repeated ribbon through a perennial border, or in an informal screen. Many forms hold their upright seedheads into winter, when they fade to straw or gold. Confirm the mature size of the specific selection before planting because the genus includes substantial variation. ## Siting and soil Calamagrostis generally performs best in full sun, though many tolerate some partial shade. Moist, fertile soil supports strong growth; most types tolerate a range of soils, but very dry, poor soil and deep shade are unfavorable. Give tall forms room and shelter exposed seedheads where strong wind may flatten them. ## Seasonal interest These cool-season grasses begin growth early in spring. Feathery plumes typically rise from early or midsummer and remain decorative into autumn or winter, while foliage dies back and fresh shoots return from the crown. ## Maintenance Cut old stems and foliage close to the ground in late winter before new shoots grow. Water new plantings during establishment and during prolonged dry periods. Divide mature clumps in spring when they become congested, as described in the [RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/calamagrostis/growing-guide).