2001
Perennial of the Year
'Karl
Foerster' Feather Reed Grass
(Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') was awarded the title
of Perennial Plant of the Year 2001 by The Perennial Plant Association.
This clump-forming,
highly ornamental grass is excellent used as a specimen or for a
vertical effect in the landscape. Combine with low-mounded shrubs
and perennials such as Coreopsis, Coneflowers, Spireas and Barberries.
In early June
light pink seed-heads appear above lush green foliage. These seed-heads
mature to a golden tan that lasts through the fall season. Even
in winter snows and frost, this grass remains ornamental. 'Karl
Foerster' grows best in well-drained and moist fertile soil in full
sun or partial shade. The growth of this grass is vertical with
a tuft of foliage 2-3 feet tall and flower stems to 5 feet in height.
Little maintenance is required except to cut back stems to about
6 inches in late winter or early spring.
