reed canarygrass

Family

Poaceae

Scientific Name

Phalaris arundinacea

Synonyms (former Scientific Names):

Phalaris arundinacea var. picta

Phalaroides arundinacea

Phalaroides arundinacea var. picta

Leaves

The numerous broad, moderately harsh, erect leaves are dominantly basal. The coarse, erect stems may reach a height of 6 to 8 feet. Seed is borne in an open panicle which ripens from the top down and shatters readily as it matures. The seed has a short storage life, up to 5 years, and should be checked for germination within 6 months of its use.

Identifying Characteristics

Reed canarygrass has excellent frost tolerance and is well suited to wet soils that are poorly drained or subject to flooding. It also has good drought tolerance. Growth begins in early spring and continues through the growing season. Regrowth following mowing or grazing is rapid on fertile sites. Forage quality is good prior to heading but then declines rapidly.

Where Found

reed canarygrass, is a vigorous, productive, long-lived, perennial, sodforming grass. It is a widespread species native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Reed canarygrass is distributed throughout the west, north, and northeastern United States.