Common reed Phragmites australis 5-10 pot P9

Size: Potmaat leidend

5-10cm

|

Pot 9x9 cm (P9)

|

Available from: 03/02/2025

Number of m2

Nr. of plants

3.35

3.35 per piece

incl. VAT, excl. shipping costs (calculated in shopping cart)

Added to shopping cart

Number of m2

Nr. of plants

Added to shopping cart

Bulk discount!

Pcs Save Price/pc

2+ £3.70

6+ -2.7% £3.60

12+ -5.4% £3.50

24+ -8.1% £3.40

96+ -9.5% £3.35

Benefits according to our specialist

Plantable year-round
Low maintenance
Decorative foliage

Plant features
Description
Planting and care
Packaging and shipping

Genus
Phragmites (view all varieties)

Root type
Pot

Pot size
9x9 cm (P9)

Flowering months
July, August, September

Leaf colour
Brown, Purple

Possibilities
Group planting, Edge planting

Soil type
Moist soil

Positioning
Semi-shade, Sun

Winter hardiness
-23,3°C / -20,6°C, USDA zone 6a

Fruit-bearing plants
No

Water needs
Average water

Number of plants per m²
6

Evergreen plants
No

Leaf colour
Grey, Green

Fragrant plants
No

Growth habit
Upright to bushy growth habit

Height at time of delivery excluding pot/clod
5-10

Mature height (cm)
200

Art. no.
1000929

Description

Phragmites australis | Common reed

Phragmites australis, commonly known as common reed or ditch reed, is a perennial grass that thrives in wetland areas. Its towering presence and feathery plumes make it a distinctive addition to any landscape, particularly suitable for group or edge planting, where its natural elegance can be fully appreciated.

Key Features

Phragmites boasts a robust, upright to bushy growth, making it a compelling choice for creating soft, natural borders.
With an ultimate height of up to 2 meters, it offers a significant vertical element to garden designs.
The ditch reed displays a seasonal palette shift, with green foliage in spring and summer that transitions to a rich brown in autumn.
Flowering from July through September, it produces brown and purple inflorescences that add a touch of color and texture to the garden.
Phragmites australis is not evergreen, thus in winter, the stems remain, providing structural interest even when the foliage has fallen.

Tips

To maintain the vitality of your Phragmites australis, it is recommended to divide the plant every few years. This promotes healthy growth and rejuvenates the stand.
Plant in a location with full sun to partial shade and ensure the soil remains moist to mimic its natural wetland habitat.
Despite its preference for moisture, avoid overly waterlogged conditions which may hinder the plant's growth.
While common reed has an average water need, it is not drought-resistant, so supplemental watering during dry periods will ensure it continues to thrive.
Incorporate this versatile species into your garden to enjoy its dynamic growth and seasonal color changes.

Ideal placement of a Phragmites australis

Phragmites australis thrives best when given a position in full sun to partial shade, ensuring it receives ample light to foster the plant's robust growth and the distinct purple hue of its summer and autumn inflorescences. It is essential for the soil to be consistently moist, as this species is well-adapted to wet environments. The ideal soil for this plant would be one that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. An edge planting location near water bodies or in group plantings within moist garden areas can replicate its natural habitat, promoting a healthy and vigorous display.

How do I plant a Phragmites australis?

For successful establishment, plant Phragmites australis in an area that receives ample sunlight to partial shade and has moist soil to support its growth preferences. It is advisable to plant in the cooler months of spring or autumn to give the roots time to establish before the heat of summer or the cold of winter. Upon planting, ensure that the soil is well-watered to encourage root development. This species thrives in a moist environment, so it is important to maintain consistent moisture levels without over-saturating the soil. Regularly check the soil's moisture content and water as needed to meet the plant's average water requirements.

Pruning a Phragmites australis

Pruning Phragmites australis should be carried out in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut the stems back to just above water level or ground level, which encourages fresh, vigorous growth and maintains the plant's upright, bushy form. Removing the spent stalks from the previous season can also help manage the plant's spread and prevent self-seeding. Pruning not only keeps the growth in check but also rejuvenates the plant for the coming season.

Watering a Phragmites australis

Phragmites australis thrives in moist conditions and requires consistent watering to maintain its health and vigor, especially during its growth period. It is vital to ensure the soil remains damp but not waterlogged. During periods of high heat or minimal rainfall, increase watering to compensate for the additional moisture loss. This species is not drought-resistant and will benefit from a regular watering schedule to support its lush, upright growth. For optimal results, water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize evaporation and facilitate effective absorption by the plant's root system.

Fertilising a Phragmites australis

To ensure the robust growth and health of Phragmites australis, a tailored fertilization approach is recommended. These tall, ornamental grasses thrive when supplied with nutrients at the onset of their growing season. Fertilize in early spring to support the vigorous growth and establishment of their lush, green foliage. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is ideal, providing steady nutrients that promote the plant's development without the risk of overfeeding. Additionally, a second application of fertilizer can be beneficial during mid-summer to sustain the plant's needs as it enters its flowering phase. Regularly check the moisture level of the soil, as this species prefers a consistent moisture level to complement the nutrients provided by fertilization.

The characteristics of a Phragmites australis

Phragmites australis is an excellent choice for natural water filtration in ponds or water gardens. Its extensive root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion along waterbanks. This species is also known for its ability to absorb excess nutrients from the water, promoting a healthier aquatic ecosystem. In addition, the tall, feathery plumes of Phragmites australis create a dynamic visual effect as they sway gracefully in the breeze, adding both movement and texture to the landscape.

Separating/dividing a Phragmites australis

To propagate Phragmites australis through division, the ideal periods are during spring or autumn. This process revitalizes the plant, promoting a more vigorous and healthy growth. Begin by carefully removing the plant from moist soil, ensuring as little disturbance to the roots as possible. Once extracted, divide the clump into smaller sections. Each section should have a strong root system and several shoots. Replant these sections at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them adequately to accommodate their upright, bushy habit, and to reach an ultimate height of up to 2 meters. Proper division can yield thriving new plants that will display their distinctive brown and purple hues in the flowering months.

What will be the height of Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis typically achieves a height of 2.5 to 4 meters when fully mature.

What will be the width of Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis can achieve a maximum spread of 2.5 to 4 meters at maturity.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis thrives in soil that is consistently moist. It is important to maintain the appropriate moisture levels to support the optimal growth of this plant.

What is the ideal positioning for the Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis thrives in a location where it can receive ample sunlight as well as partial shade. This plant is adaptable to both conditions and can flourish in environments with alternating exposure to direct sunlight and partial shade.

What is the flowering colour of the Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis blooms in hues of brown and purple. These nuanced colours contribute to the visual interest of the plant during its flowering stage.

Is the Phragmites australis hardy?

Yes, Phragmites australis is considered to be winter hardy. This species can endure temperatures as low as -23.3°C to -20.1°C, placing it within USDA hardiness zone 6a. This indicates its ability to withstand typical winter conditions in various regions.

Is the Phragmites australis evergreen?

Phragmites australis is not an evergreen plant. It is classified as a deciduous plant, shedding its leaves in the autumn and regrowing them in the following spring.

What is the growth strength of the Phragmites australis?

Phragmites australis takes approximately 5 to 10 years to reach its full height, signifying a moderate yet steady growth rate over a longer period of time.

0203 455 22 48

Send an e-mail
[email protected]

Personal advice from
our specialists? We are happy to help you!