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Phalaris arundinacea - Reed Canary Grass

photo by  WNY PRISM

June 5, 2015

Close up Photo

photo by  WNY PRISM

June 5, 2015

Infestation Photo

photo by  WNY PRISM

June 5, 2015

    Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is a perennial grass in the Grass family, native to Eurasia and planted throughout the United States since the 1800’s as a forage species and for erosion control. It grows up to 6 feet tall in clumps. The flowers are densely clustered single florets, green to purple changing to beige over time. The flower stalks do not persist long after flowering during the months of June through August.

    Reed Canary Grass spreads by rhizomes and soon forms large patches. It is consider invasive, because it forms dense monocultures which outcompete native plant species and provide less-productive wildlife habitat.  This grass is a major threat to natural wetlands and presents challenges to wetland mitigation.

Infestation Photo

Close up Photo