Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is a plant species native to Europe, Asia, North America and North Africa. Reed canary grass has a wide range of uses. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant or its biomass is burned for fuel.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Phalaris arundinacea, or reed canary grass, is a tall, perennial bunchgrass that commonly forms extensive single-species stands along the margins of lakes and streams and in wet open areas, with a wide distribution in Europe, Asia, northern Africa and North America. Other common names for the plant include gardener’s-garters and ribbon grass in English, alpiste roseau in French, Rohrglanzgras in German, kusa-yoshi in Japanese, caniço-malhado in Portuguese, and hierba cinta and pasto cinto in Spanish.
The stems can reach 2 metres (6.6 ft) in height. The leaf blades are usually green, but may be variegated. The panicles are up to 30 centimetres (12 in) long. The spikelets are light green, often streaked with darker green or purple. This is a perennial grass which spreads underground by its thick rhizomes.
II. How to Grow and Care
Reed canary grass is a robust perennial grass known for its adaptability across various environments. Key care points include maintaining consistently moist soil conditions, as reed canary grass thrives in wetlands or areas with adequate water. Managing its invasive potential is crucial; therefore, containment or regular trimming to prevent it from overtaking other plants is necessary. Despite its vigorous growth, reed canary grass is generally low-maintenance, making it easy to care for under optimal conditions.
Sunlight
Reed canary grass flourishes best under full sun conditions which involve direct exposure to sunlight for most of the day. This intensity of light promotes vigorous growth and optimal health. Reed canary grass exhibits tolerance for partial sun, adapting to a lesser degree of light without significant detriment to its growth, though it may not thrive as robustly as it does in full sun. It is capable of adjusting its growth patterns when subjected to varied light conditions, which can be seen in subtle leaf morphology changes. When planted outdoors, reed canary grass should be situated in areas that provide maximum daily sunlight exposure to meet its light preferences for ideal growth.
Watering
Adapted to the moist conditions of its native environments, reed canary grass thrives in wetlands and along waterways, indicating a preference for consistent moisture. This species is known for its ability to tolerate brief periods of flooding as well as its resilience in standing water. For optimal growth, reed canary grass requires watering twice a week, maintaining soil that is consistently damp but not waterlogged. Given its affinity for wet habitats, reed canary grass is often found outdoors where it can naturally benefit from rainwater and high humidity levels. Particularly during its growing season, this plant’s vitality is closely tied to adequate hydration and the balancing act between soil moisture and drainage.
Fertilizing
For reed canary grass, a mulch or compost provides both nutrients and moisture retention. Fertilize in early spring and possibly again in mid-summer, using no more than a half-inch layer to avoid root burn. Benefits are heightened growth, vigor, and stress resilience. Adjust application based on growth stages, more for establishment and less as reed canary grass matures. Apply evenly around the base, not touching the stems to prevent decay. Monitoring soil fertility helps tailor needs; overfertilization promotes weed-like invasiveness. Suitable for all gardening levels; follow the label rates for safety.
Propagation
Reed canary grass propagates primarily through division in spring or autumn for best results. Propagation tends to be relatively simple, with success evident by new shoots and healthy root systems. Maintain appropriate soil moisture to ensure healthy growth.
Transplanting
Transplant reed canary grass during early spring to mid-spring or late fall to early winter, when it’s actively growing. Select a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. To ensure success, water regularly after transplanting and maintain consistent moisture levels.
Repotting
Repot reed canary grass every 2-3 years in the spring to accommodate its growth spurts. This perennial grass forms large clumps and isn’t a climber or bush. Use a pot only slightly larger than the root ball, as massive containers can lead to overwatering issues. Post-repotting, keep reed canary grass well-watered to help roots establish. No extra pampering needed as reed canary grass is quite resilient, just ensure it has enough space to thrive.
III. Uses and Benefits
A number of cultivars of P. arundinacea have been selected for use as ornamental plants, including variegated (striped) cultivars – sometimes called ribbon grass – such as ‘Castor’ and ‘Feesey’. The latter has a pink tinge to the leaves. When grown, although drought-tolerant, it likes abundant water and can even be grown as an aquatic plant.
Reed canary grass grows well on poor soil and contaminated industrial sites, and researchers at Teesside University’s Contaminated Land & Water Centre have suggested it as the ideal candidate for phytoremediation in improving soil quality and biodiversity at brownfield sites.
The grass can also easily be turned into bricks or pellets for burning in biomass power stations. Furthermore, it provides fibers which find use in pulp and papermaking processes.
P. arundinacea is also planted as a hay crop or for forage.
This species of Phalaris may also be used as a source for the psychedelic drugs DMT, 5-MeO-DMT and 5-OH-DMT (bufotenin), as well as Hordenine and 5-MeO-NMT; however, N,N-DMT is considered most desirable. Although the concentrations of these compounds is lower than in other potential sources, such as Psychotria viridis and Mimosa tenuiflora, large enough quantities of the grass can be refined to make an ad hoc ayahuasca brew.