Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Feather reed grass / 5-10cm

In stock up to and including 22/12/2024

Size: Potmaat leidend

5-10cm

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Pot 9x9 cm (P9)

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In stock up to and including 22/12/2024
- 5-10cm
  
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  Pot 9x9 cm (P9)
  
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  From 3.35
  
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  In stock up to and including 22/12/2024
- 10-15cm
  
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  Pot 2 ltr. (C2)
  
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  From 9.70
  
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  Temporarily sold out

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Benefits according to our specialist

Plantable year-round
Pot grown
Low maintenance

Plant features
Description
Frequently Asked Questions
Planting and care
Packaging and shipping

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Genus
Calamagrostis (view all varieties)

Root type
Pot

Pot size
9x9 cm (P9)

Flowering months
June, July, August

Leaf colour
Brown, Yellow

Possibilities
Border, Group planting, Solitary

Soil type
All soil types, well-drained

Positioning
Semi-shade, Sun

Winter hardiness
-20,6°C / -15,0°C , USDA zone 6b/7a

Fruit-bearing plants
No

Water needs
Average water

Number of plants per m²
6

Evergreen plants
No

Leaf colour
Green

Fragrant plants
No

Growth habit
Upright growth habit

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

Mature height (cm)
150

Art. no.
1000162

Description

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' | Feather reed grass

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is a striking ornamental grass known for its upright growth habit and feathery blooms that grace gardens with their presence from summer through autumn. Commonly referred to as feather reed grass, this cultivar stands out with its robust stature and ability to provide vertical interest to any garden setting, whether planted in borders, grouped, or as a solitary feature.

Key Features

The allure of Calamagrostis lies in its versatility and aesthetic appeal. As a testament to its beauty and functionality, here are the key characteristics of feather reed grass:

The plant maintains a vibrant green foliage from spring through autumn, transitioning to a show-stopping display of bronze flowers in summer and brown hues in the fall.
It reaches an ultimate height of approximately 1.5 meters, making it a substantial presence in any landscape design.
The grass thrives in a full sun to partial shade location and can adapt to various soil types, provided they are well-drained.
While it is not evergreen, its deciduous nature allows for a fresh display of growth each year.
The 'Karl Foerster' is not drought-resistant, indicating a need for consistent watering to maintain its lush appearance.
Its growth form is decidedly upright, offering a distinct contrast to the more common mounding habits of other garden plants.

Tips

To ensure the health and vigor of your Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster', consider the following tips:

Division is the preferred method of propagation for this species. Undertaking this process in the spring or autumn will rejuvenate the plant and stimulate new growth.
Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, to keep the plant thriving.
While feather reed grass is adaptable to various light conditions, for the most prolific flowering, plant it in a location where it receives ample sunlight.
Although pruning is not necessary, cutting back the old foliage in early spring will make way for new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.

Ideal placement of a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' flourishes in locations that receive full sun to partial shade. This preference for luminosity ensures the plant's upright growth habit is displayed to its full potential, with the feather-like inflorescences reaching up to 1.5 meters in height. While adaptable to various soil conditions, it is crucial that the chosen site provides well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging and promote a healthy root system. The bronze summer blooms transitioning to brown in autumn are best showcased in open areas where their full stature and color can be appreciated, making them an excellent choice for borders or as a dramatic solitary feature.

How do I plant a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

For successful establishment, Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' should be planted in a well-drained soil of any type. Begin by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the pot and of equal depth. Carefully remove the grass from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill with the excavated earth, gently firming down to eliminate any air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture for root development. For optimal growth, choose a location with full sun to partial shade, keeping in mind the grass's upright growth habit and potential height of up to 1.5 meters.

Pruning a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

To maintain the structural elegance of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster', it is best to cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning should be done close to ground level, leaving about 10 cm of the previous year's growth to protect the crown. This timing allows gardeners to enjoy the plant's beauty throughout the winter, as the dried grasses provide texture and movement in the landscape. Regular pruning encourages fresh, healthy growth and ensures the perennial maintains its upright growth habit.

Watering a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

The Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' requires consistent moisture to thrive, particularly in its growing season. Watering should be thorough, ensuring that the soil is moistened to a good depth, which encourages deeper root development. During the peak of summer, you may need to water the plant more frequently, especially if there are extended periods of hot, dry weather. However, it's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent over-saturation. As this species is not drought-resistant, regular monitoring of soil moisture levels is key to maintaining its vigorous growth and stunning floral display.

Fertilising a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

For optimal growth and development, it is crucial to provide a balanced fertilization regimen for this species. A slow-release fertilizer is highly recommended, ideally applied in early spring to coincide with the onset of the growing season. This will supply the plant with a steady source of nutrients, promoting a robust and upright growth habit.

As the growing season progresses and the plant reaches its peak, a second application of fertilizer may be beneficial to sustain its vigor, especially if the soil is less fertile. Care should be taken to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of the characteristic flowering. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for application rates and methods to ensure the health and beauty of the plant.

The characteristics of a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

One often overlooked trait of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is its architectural structure, which provides a striking vertical element to the landscape throughout the year. Its feathery plumes, which transition from a vibrant green to a golden hue as the seasons change, add a layer of visual interest and texture to the garden. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, making it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance, yet aesthetically pleasing garden design.

Separating/dividing a Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

To maintain vigor and promote healthy growth, it is beneficial to divide Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' periodically. Ideally, this division should occur during the more temperate seasons of spring or autumn. The process involves carefully removing the plant from the soil and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have a robust root system and several shoots to ensure successful re-establishment. Once divided, replant the sections at the same soil depth they were previously, allowing ample space for future growth. This practice not only rejuvenates the plant but also offers an opportunity to expand its presence in the landscape.

What will be the height of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' typically grows to a height ranging between 1 and 1.5 meters.

What will be the width of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' achieves a final spread ranging from 50 centimeters to 1 meter.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is adaptable to various soil types, but it particularly thrives in well-drained soil. This type of soil ensures that excess water does not accumulate around the roots, promoting the optimal growth of the plant.

What is the ideal positioning for the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

The optimal location for Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is one that receives either direct sunlight or partial shade. This plant thrives when placed in an area where it can benefit from ample sunlight or in a location with partial shade.

What is the flowering colour of the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

The blossoms of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' showcase a blend of brown and yellow hues, adding a unique and warm touch to the plant's overall appearance.

Is the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' hardy?

Certainly, Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is indeed winter hardy. It can endure temperatures as low as -20.6°C to -15.0°C, placing it within the USDA hardiness zones 6b to 7a. This indicates that the plant is well-suited to withstand the winter conditions in these zones, making it a suitable choice for gardens in such regions.

Is the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' evergreen?

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' is not an evergreen plant. It sheds its leaves during the autumn and grows new ones in the spring, following a deciduous pattern.

What is the growth strength of the Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'?

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' achieves its full height within a period of two to five years, indicating a moderate yet steady growth rate.

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