calamagrostis karl foerster - ornamental grass

€7 each (3L pots)
3 plants for €20
based in Kilmuckridge

Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
(Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass)

A very popular, upright, clump-forming deciduous ornamental grass prized for its strong vertical structure and elegant feathery plumes. It produces narrow, stiff, erect stems that remain standing throughout the year, giving excellent winter interest.

In early to mid-summer (June–July), it sends up tall, feathery flower spikes that start as a soft pinkish-green and mature to a light straw-gold or silvery-tan colour. The plumes are narrow, dense, and slightly arching at the tips, creating a distinctive “feather reed” effect that moves gracefully in the breeze.

Foliage consists of stiff, narrow, mid-green leaves that form a neat, upright clump. In autumn the foliage turns a warm golden-buff colour before drying to beige for winter.
Mature size:

Height: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft) including the flower plumes
Spread: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft)

Fully hardy in Ireland (RHS H6), it is easy to grow in full sun to light shade. It prefers moist but well-drained soil and tolerates a wide range of conditions, including heavy clay and occasional drought once established. It performs best in open, sunny positions where its upright habit is most effective.

Uses: Excellent as a vertical accent in borders, for creating rhythmic planting, screening, or as a low-maintenance backdrop. It pairs beautifully with perennials such as Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum, and Astilbe. The dried plumes are also popular for cut-flower arrangements and winter garden displays.

A reliable, architectural grass with strong form, long season of interest, and minimal maintenance — one of the best and most widely planted ornamental grasses in temperate gardens.