What is Eldorado Grass: Learn About Growing Eldorado Feather Reed Grass

What is Eldorado grass? Also known as feather reed grass, Eldorado grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Eldorado’) is a stunning, ornamental grass with narrow, gold-striped leaves. Feathery pale purple plumes rise above the plant in midsummer, turning a rich wheat color in fall and into winter. This is a tough, clump-forming plant that thrives in climates as chilly as USDA plant hardiness zone 3, and possibly even colder with protection. Looking for more Eldorado feather reed grass information? Read on.

Eldorado Feather Reed Grass Info

Eldorado feather reed grass is a straight, upright plant that reaches heights of 4 to 6 feet (1-2 m.) at maturity. This is a well-behaved ornamental grass with no threat of aggression or invasiveness. Plant Eldorado feather reed grass as a focal point or in prairie gardens, mass plantings, rock gardens, or in the back of flower beds. It is often planted for erosion control.

Growing Eldorado Feather Reed Grass

Eldorado feather reed grass thrives in full sunlight, although it appreciates afternoon shade in very hot climates. Nearly any well-drained soil is fine for this adaptable ornamental grass. If your soil is clay or doesn’t drain well, dig in a generous amount of small pebbles or sand.

Caring for Feather Reed Grass ‘Eldorado’

Keep Eldorado feather grass moist during the first year. Thereafter, one watering every couple of weeks is usually sufficient, although the plant may need more moisture during hot, dry weather. Eldorado feather grass rarely needs fertilizer. If growth appears slow, apply a light application of slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Alternatively, dig in a little well-rotted animal manure. Cut Eldorado feather grass to a height of 3 to 5 inches (8-12.5 cm.) before new growth appears in early spring. Divide feather reed grass ‘Eldorado’ in fall or early spring every three to five years. Otherwise, the plant will die down and become unsightly in the center.