Also known as Giant Reed · 27 saves
Arundo
Arundo, the genus most gardeners know as giant reed. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Arundo varieties
Species of Arundo
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Arundo in Sow
Save the Arundo you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Arundo
Whats common across all Arundo varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Arundo year
- PruneJanuary and February67% of varieties
Cut all canes down to the ground in late winter before new growth starts.
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Cut back in late winter to promote new growth
- Divide every 3-4 years to control size
- Water regularly to keep soil moist
- Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant near small or delicate plants
- Never leave debris around the base to prevent pests
- Avoid drought stress; water during dry periods
What goes wrong with Arundo
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue on leaves | Spray with neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning at base | Ensure proper drainage |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; its freedom from natural enemies is part of why it dominates where introduced |
| Fungal rust | Orange pustules on leaves | Apply organic fungicide |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning of foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Generally disease-free | No significant disease issues are typical | Monitor only; nothing here limits its spread |
Making more Arundo
division
- Dig up mature clumps in early spring.
- Separate rhizomes with a sharp knife, taking care to include roots.
- Plant divisions immediately in prepared soil, spacing 3 feet apart.
- Water thoroughly and mulch to retain moisture.
cuttings
- Take 12-inch cuttings from healthy stems in late spring.
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-drained soil or perlite.
- Mist regularly and keep in warm, bright location for 6 weeks.
Arundo questions
How many types of Arundo are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Arundo varieties. The most popular — ranked by 27 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Arundo grow in?
Across its varieties, Arundo covers USDA Zones 6–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Arundo bloom?
Most Arundo varieties bloom in late summer, late summer to fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Arundo should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.