Species

Calamagrostis x acutiflorafeather reed grass

3 other cultivars

perennial

Stricta Feather Reed Grass

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Stricta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Stricta' is a clump-forming grass with upright, narrow, and rigid foliage, producing tall, feathery flower spikes that are silvery and plumed, adding texture to ornamental gardens.

This cultivar is distinguished by its dense, upright growth habit and finely textured foliage, making it an excellent choice for structural planting and ornamental borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds vertical texture and movement to garden designs with its graceful flower spikes.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable landscapes.

Provides habitat and cover for beneficial insects and birds.

SpeciesCalamagrostis x acutiflorafeather reed grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

60 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor
Cut back to about 4 inches in late winter for tidy appearance

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Divide every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
Cut back in late winter for fresh growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering; it can cause root rot ❌
Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
Avoid cutting back in mid-summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Harvest
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery‑foliaged hedgeTexture accent in perennial border

Companion Plants

Sedum Echinacea RudbeckiaLavender Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stricta Feather Reed Grass questions

What zones can Stricta Feather Reed Grass grow in?

Stricta Feather Reed Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Stricta Feather Reed Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Stricta Feather Reed Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Stricta Feather Reed Grass bloom?

Stricta Feather Reed Grass typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Stricta Feather Reed Grass need full sun?

Stricta Feather Reed Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Stricta Feather Reed Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Stricta Feather Reed Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.