Calamagrostis brachytricha

Calamagrostis brachytricha: Korean Feather Reed Grass

Soft, arching, and elegantly understated, Calamagrostis brachytricha—Korean Feather Reed Grass—brings late-season beauty and gentle movement to sunny or lightly shaded gardens. Its fountain-like clumps of deep green foliage are topped in late summer by silvery-pink plumes that catch the light and persist into fall. As the season cools, both foliage and flowers transition to warm buff tones, offering multi-season texture and structure. Tolerant of a range of soils and moisture levels, this grass is a graceful, easy-care choice for layered plantings and naturalistic borders.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–120 cm (in bloom)
• Spread: 60–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Silvery-pink turning tan
• Flowering Period: Late summer to fall
• Foliage: Arching, medium green turning golden-buff in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of clay and seasonal dryness once established

Uses and Benefits: Korean Feather Reed Grass is ideal for softening mixed borders, edging naturalistic plantings, or adding height and texture to pollinator gardens. Its late bloom time makes it valuable for shoulder-season interest, and its fluffy plumes remain attractive well into winter. Suitable for cottage, contemporary, or meadow designs, it brings movement, contrast, and elegance without overwhelming nearby perennials. It also performs well in light shade, offering flexibility in placement.

Companion Plants: Pair Calamagrostis brachytricha with the lavender-blue daisy blooms of Aster 'Monch', the refined white petals of Echinacea 'White Swan', and the compact golden plumes of Solidago 'Golden Baby'. This combination offers a dynamic balance of height, colour, and pollinator appeal from late summer into fall.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during establishment, then only during extended dry periods. Cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Avoid heavy fertilization, which can cause floppy growth. Division can be done in spring every few years to maintain vigour and shape.

History: Native to East Asia, Calamagrostis brachytricha has gained popularity in North American gardens for its soft texture and season-spanning appeal. Unlike the more rigid Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster', it offers a looser, more natural habit suited to diverse design styles.

Final Thoughts: With its feathery plumes and adaptable form, Korean Feather Reed Grass brings lightness, structure, and seasonal warmth to the late garden. It’s a quietly beautiful grass that holds its own through wind, weather, and time.