Arundo donax
giant reed
A deciduous rhizomatous perennial, forming spreading clumps of bamboo-like stems to 5m, with arching, strap-shaped blue-green leaves and large terminal purplish flower panicles
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Green | |||
| Autumn | Purple | Blue Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Arundo are a genus of tall, robust, evergreen grass-like perennials, some reed-like in appearance, which are native to southern Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
This plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act (Northern Ireland) as an invasive non-native species. Although not banned from sale, it is an offence to plant or cause these to grow in the wild IN NORTHERN IRELAND. Gardeners possessing them should undertake measures to control them. See RHS advice on invasive non-native species for further information
Propagation
Please see cultivation notes
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Architectural
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Leaves can be cut off when they die back in late autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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