Calamagrostis 'Hello Spring'

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Hello Spring': Hello Spring Feather Reed Grass

Fresh, bright, and perfectly upright, Calamagrostis 'Hello Spring' is a newer feather reed grass that makes a strong seasonal statement from the moment it emerges. Its early spring growth is vivid green and cleanly vertical, quickly forming a refined column that brings structure to borders even before its flowering begins. By early summer, soft bronze-pink plumes appear, rising above the foliage and catching the light with a feathery texture that endures well into fall. With its compact size and tidy habit, 'Hello Spring' is a natural fit for modern, low-maintenance gardens.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 100–120 cm (in bloom)
• Spread: 50–60 cm
• Flower Colour: Soft bronze-pink aging to tan
• Flowering Period: Early to mid-summer
• Foliage: Bright green, narrow, upright
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to clay and dry spells once established

Uses and Benefits: 'Hello Spring' is ideal for adding crisp vertical interest to sunny borders, small-space plantings, or modern prairie schemes. Its early emergence and reliable structure make it a season-spanning backbone for perennials, while its plumes provide texture and movement. The narrow footprint and strong form also lend themselves well to repetition along walkways, in foundation beds, or interwoven among flowering perennials for year-round definition.

Companion Plants: Pair Calamagrostis 'Hello Spring' with the soft pink daisy blooms of Aster 'Wood's Pink', the bold, golden tones of Echinacea 'Kismet Yellow', and the deep red-and-gold flowers of Heliopsis 'Burning Hearts'. Together, these selections create a richly coloured, pollinator-friendly planting with layered height and high summer impact.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for strongest growth and most upright form. Water during prolonged dry spells but avoid overly rich soil, which can encourage flopping. Cut back to 10–15 cm in late winter or early spring. Divide clumps every few years in spring to refresh and maintain vigour.

History: A recent introduction to the Calamagrostis × acutiflora family, 'Hello Spring' was selected for its early season presence, tidy stature, and reliable upright form. It builds on the garden-proven performance of this hybrid group, offering fresh appeal and versatility for a wide range of landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Clean-lined, cheerful, and early to rise, 'Hello Spring' delivers structure and lightness from the first weeks of the growing season. It’s an ideal grass for contemporary gardens with a touch of prairie flair—subtle, stylish, and full of promise.