Calamagrostis Karl Foerster

Calamagrostis Karl Foerster

Why Buy Me?

• Ideal for a cottage garden
• Visually impressive when swaying in the wind
• Group with other grasses for maximum effect

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to light shade. Performs best in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for upright growth and full flowering. Tolerates light shade, but may flop or bloom less.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil. Prefers loamy or sandy soils but is adaptable to clay if drainage is adequate. Tolerates a wide range of soil pH, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Avoid waterlogged or extremely dry soils.

Exposure:
Thrives in both sheltered and exposed sites. Very hardy (USDA zones 4–9 / UK H7) and tolerates wind and cold. Performs reliably in a range of garden conditions.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Drought-tolerant once established but prefers regular watering during extended dry spells for best appearance.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in spring or early autumn when temperatures are moderate and soil moisture is naturally higher.

Spacing:
Space 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) apart. Grows 120–180 cm (4–6 feet) tall including flower spikes, with a clump width of about 60 cm (24 inches).

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, water during prolonged dry periods. Fertilization is rarely needed; a light mulch or compost in spring is sufficient.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Cut back to about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above ground in late winter or very early spring before new growth begins. Divide every 3–4 years to rejuvenate and maintain vigour.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in spring or autumn. Division also helps control size and maintain plant health. Not typically grown from seed due to hybrid origin.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Fresh green foliage emerges in tidy, upright clumps. Early growth is dense and vertical, providing strong structural presence even before flowering.

Summer:
Elegant, upright flower spikes appear in early to midsummer (June–July), turning from greenish-pink to golden tan as they mature. Provides long-lasting vertical interest.

Autumn:
Flower spikes persist and turn golden-brown, offering autumn structure and warm tones. Foliage may take on yellow hues before fading.

Winter:
Dried flower spikes and stems remain upright and attractive through winter, catching frost and snow. Offers strong year-round structure and texture.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Provides habitat and shelter for birds and beneficial insects. Seedheads may offer food to birds in winter. Non-invasive and safe for wildlife gardens.

Garden Use:
Ideal for borders, architectural planting, prairie and naturalistic gardens, urban gardens, and mass plantings. Excellent for adding height and structure. Suitable for containers if well-watered.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum, Salvia, Perovskia, Achillea, and Allium. Also looks striking with other grasses like Panicum and Miscanthus. Works well with both formal and naturalistic planting styles.

Transform your home and garden with the Calamagrostis Karl Foerster , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.