Calamagrostis 'Overdam'

Calamagrostis 'Overdam': Pinstriped and Sized for Small Gardens

'Overdam' showed up in stripes, creamy white edges and a pink blush in spring, like a grass that's really into pastel season. Feathery plumes fade to wheat. SOFT LOOK, HARD WORKER.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Overdam'
• Common Name: Feather Reed Grass
• Height: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft) in flower
• Spread: 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft)
• Flowers: Feathery greenish-mauve to pinkish plumes that ripen to wheat-coloured spikes
• Bloom Time: Early to late summer (June to August), with seedheads lasting into winter
• Foliage: Narrow green leaves with creamy white margins and stripes, sometimes pink-tinged in spring

Where to Plant: Its tidy size makes it a good fit for smaller gardens, foundation beds and the middle of a mixed border. Plant it in groups or repeat it along a bed for a light, airy rhythm. It tolerates clay and holds up through winter snow.

Companion Plants: Plant 'Overdam' where its cream-edged blades can brighten a sunny bed of soft pinks and blues. Geum 'Blazing Sunset' adds double scarlet flowers at 55 to 60 cm from May to July. Monarda Grand Parade™ brings lavender-purple bee balm at 40 to 45 cm in July and August. Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbery' adds pale lavender-pink daylilies at 75 cm in July and August. Aster 'Wood's Light Blue' fills the front at 30 to 40 cm with light blue asters from August to October.

Plant Care: Plant it in full sun to part sun in average, well-drained soil. Some protection from the hottest afternoon sun helps the white variegation look its best, since it can fade a little in high heat. Water regularly the first season, then only in long dry spells. Leave the plumes and leaves for winter interest. Cut the clump back to about 15 cm (6 in) in late winter or early spring, before new shoots appear. Divide in spring if the clump becomes crowded.

History: 'Overdam' is a variegated form of feather reed grass, Calamagrostis × acutiflora, a sterile natural hybrid of two Eurasian reed grasses, and its exact origin isn't well documented. It has been grown in North American gardens for decades and is often the yardstick for newer variegated selections.

Final Thoughts: Drought tolerant once established, deer resistant and happy in sun. Plant it to brighten a heavy green border. STRIPES ARE SLIMMING.