Feather Reed Grass ‘Avalanche’ – How To Grow Avalanche Feather Reed Grass

Ornamental grasses are popular in landscaping and home gardens because they provide vertical interest, varied textures, and an exotic element to beds and walkways. Hardy from zones 4 to 9, avalanche feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Avalanche') is a showy choice with stunning plumes and great height.

About Feather Reed Grass ‘Avalanche’

Feather reed grass is a group of nearly 250 species of ornamental grasses that are native to wet and temperate regions. They form dense clumps of grass that stand perfectly upright, and they produce flower stalks and plumes in the summer. ‘Avalanche’ is a cultivar of a hybrid species of feather reed grass that is native to Europe and Asia. When growing avalanche grass, expect the tight clumps to grow to 18 to 36 inches (46-91 cm.) in height and then to reach as high as 4 feet (1 m.) as the flower plumes reach their maximum summer height. These grasses are called feather reed because the plumes are soft and feathery. The leaves of ‘Avalanche’ are green with a white stripe down the center, while the flowers are pinkish green.

How to Grow Avalanche Feather Reed Grass

Avalanche feather reed grass care is simple and easy for most gardeners to maintain. Choose a spot with full sun and average to rich soil that is moist. This grass likes water, so it is especially important to water deeply during the first season you have it in the ground. This will help it establish deep roots. Even after the first growing season, water your feather reed grass during the hottest and driest parts of the year. In late winter, before the new shoots start poking through the ground, cut your grass down to the ground. Care for growing Avalanche grass is easy enough, and if you have the right moisture and climate conditions, this can be a largely hands-off perennial. Use it as the backdrop for shorter flowers and perennials, almost like a shrub or hedge. You can also use it in front of taller garden elements, like trees, or along walkways and borders to add visual interest and texture.