Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass

A classic, upright ornamental grass prized for its strong vertical habit, early-season flowering, and exceptional four-season interest. Narrow green foliage forms a tight, clump-forming base, topped in early summer by upright, wheat-like flower plumes that emerge purple-bronze and mature to golden tan, persisting well into winter.

Growth is clean, uniform, and non-invasive, maintaining a crisp architectural presence without flopping or spreading.

Growing Conditions



Light: Full sun to part shade



Soil: Moist, well-drained; adaptable to a wide range of soil types



Water: Average; drought tolerant once established



Cold Hardiness: Excellent winter tolerance



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4a–9b



Mature Size



Height: 4–5 ft (5–6 ft in flower)



Width: 2–3 ft



Features



Strongly upright, vertical growth habit



Early-season flowering plumes



Excellent winter interest



Non-invasive, clump-forming grass



Landscape Uses



Mass plantings and drifts



Vertical accents and screens



Foundation and backdrop plantings



Formal and naturalistic gardens



Why Growers Choose It



One of the most reliable ornamental grasses available



Maintains form without lodging



Outstanding performance across a wide climate range

Plant type

Ornamental Grass

Height

4'

Width

2.5-3.5'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Clump

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No