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Gerald L. Klingaman
Poaceae
Arundo donax
Giant Reed
Giant reed is a large, evergreen or deciduous, perennial grass with thick, hollow, cane-like stems and long, arching, green to gray-green leaves. In late summer it produces feathery plumes of light green to purplish flowers that mature to silver. Originally from southern Europe, giant reed has been widely planted and become naturalized in temperate and sub-tropical regions worldwide. It spreads by underground rhizomes and is potentially invasive in tropical and subtropical regions where it may also spread by seed.
Although it tolerates most conditions including alkaline soil and seaside exposures, this sun-loving plant achieves its greatest height and vigor near fresh water. Use it as an architectural accent or screen. It can also be grown in containers or under cover.
12 - 1
6 - 10
3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Grass
Full Sun
6'-30' / 1.8m - 9.1m
5'-10' / 1.5m - 3.0m
Late Summer, Early Fall, Fall, Late Fall
Southern Europe
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Wet Site, Drought, Salt
Very Fast
Average Water
Upright/Erect
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Showy
Purple, Light Green, Silver
Silver
Green, Gray Green
No
Single
Yes
Bold
Matte
Container, Cutflower, Dried Flower/Everlasting, Feature Plant, Mixed Border, Screening / Wind Break, Tropical, Water Gardens
Sometimes
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