Phragmites australis
Common reed, Carrizo
Also known as Phragmites communis
- Height × spread
- 1.5m – 1.5m × 2m – 2m
- Position
- All conditions
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
These are big invasive plants which can stand up to 4 metres in height. They have great beauty when established in large wet areas. Their big plumed flower heads are beautiful in winter when they catch the light. There are a number of more ornamental forms including a variegated form and another with especially large leaves.
- Flower colour
- Brown, White
- Foliage colour
- Brown, Green
- Fruit colour
- Beige, Brown, Gold
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Cube
- Height
- 1.5m – 1.5m
- Spread
- 2m – 2m
- Season of interest
- Summer, Autumn, Winter
- Evergreen
- Deciduous
- Garden style
- Water garden, Seaside garden
- Sun or shade
- All conditions
- Soil type
- Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil, Damp and wet soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, most are hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Water depth
- Up to 60cm
- Use for
- Structural
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring · Outdoors
Feed with aquatic plant food
As the plant is grown in water, feed with an aquatic feed as directed on the packet. Do not exceed the amounts given as this can affect the water.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water frequently to keep the soil moist
The plant thrives in moist or boggy soil, doesn't tolerate dryness and should be watered frequently, not only after a period of drought, but if the soil begins to dry out spring to autumn. Check plants in pots more frequently, especially in hot weather.
Winter
Winter - mid-late · Planting
Prune to the ground in winter
Cut foliage to the ground before new growth starts in spring.
Where stems are grown for ornamental value, they should be removed either before new growth starts in spring, or during winter when they begin to look ragged or untidy.
Planting & general
Outdoors
Feed & mulch some varieties differently
Some plant varieties within this species require additional feeding and/or mulching. It is best to look up your specific plant for guidance.
Compost · Planting
Compost for aquatic plants
Use aquatic plant compost for pond plants (other composts contain nitrates that cause problems in ponds). Pond plants are generally planted in baskets and weighted to keep in position.