Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster'

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster': Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass

An enduring classic in ornamental grasses, Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' is prized for its tall, narrow form, early bloom, and unmatched garden reliability. Its vertical green blades emerge in spring and are quickly topped by upright, wheat-like plumes that age from soft bronze to golden tan. The effect is architectural yet soft—perfect for adding structure, movement, and elegance to both traditional and contemporary plantings. Wind- and weather-resistant, 'Karl Foerster' maintains its tidy form into winter, making it a four-season performer.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 150–180 cm (in bloom)
• Spread: 60–75 cm
• Flower Colour: Bronze maturing to golden tan
• Flowering Period: Early summer to fall
• Foliage: Upright, deep green turning buff in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of clay and seasonal dryness

Uses and Benefits: 'Karl Foerster' is a cornerstone grass for border design, mass plantings, and modern landscapes. Its strong vertical habit creates rhythm and repetition in garden beds, while its early flowering and long-lasting plumes add both texture and light. Use it as a backdrop for colourful perennials, a screen for structural interest, or a focal point in small urban spaces. Low maintenance, deer resistant, and unfailingly upright, it’s a favourite among designers and home gardeners alike.

Companion Plants: Pair the clean lines of Karl Foerster with the compact violet blooms of Aster 'Purple Dome', the bold orange daisy flowers of Echinacea 'Sombrero Adobe Orange', and the cheerful golden blooms of Heliopsis 'Tuscan Sun'. This combination bursts with late-season colour and pollinator appeal, balanced by the grass’s vertical calm.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for best form and flowering. Water regularly during establishment; mature plants are drought tolerant. Cut back to 10–15 cm in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Divide clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigour and shape.

History: Originally selected by German nurseryman Karl Foerster, this hybrid feather reed grass was one of the first ornamental grasses widely adopted in garden design. It received the 2001 Perennial Plant of the Year award and remains one of the most reliable and beloved grasses in North American landscapes.

Final Thoughts: With its stately presence and season-long appeal, 'Karl Foerster' stands tall as a timeless garden essential. It brings order, elegance, and enduring beauty to every planting it graces.