Reed Canary Grass

Order: Poales

Family: Poaceae

Genus: Phalaris

Species: P. arundinacea

Identifying Characteristics:

- The stems can reach 2.5 m in height. The leaf blades are blue-green when fresh and straw-colored when dry. The flowers are borne on the stem high above the leaves and are pinkish at full bloom.

Special Adaptations:

- Reed canary grass grows well on poor soils and contaminated industrial site

- Reed canary grass is also planted as a hay crop or for forage. Furthermore it provides fibers which find use in pulp and papermaking processes.

- In many places, reed canary grass is an invasive species in wetlands, particularly in disturbed areas. When reed canary grass invades a wetland, it suppresses native vegetation and reduces diversity. The grass propagates by seed and rhizome, and once established, is difficult to eradicate.