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Calamagrostis nutkaensis 'The King'
The King Pacific Reed Grass
Description
This robust selection is one of the best native California grasses to come along in years. Handsome foliage and showy flowers give it a great one-two punch in the meadow. The glossy green ribbon-like foliage and golden flower spikes are surreal in the light of the full moon. be sure to plant it where late and early light will backlight its golden flowers.
A big native grass, it's great in groups, massed, as a background grass, and on meadow edges. It looks right at home on a woodland edge and streamside. The King Pacific Reed Grass combines well with Leymus triticoides Lagunita and groundcover sedges, adding a tall flowering accent to your meadow.
General Details
Plant Type
Grass, Poaceae
Native Region
California, USA
Seasonality
Cool-season, evergreen
Height
Foliage grows 3-4 feet tall, flowers 1-2 feet above the foliage
Width
3-4 feet
Alternate Names
N/a
Aesthetic Form
Landscaping Value
Meadows, flowering accents, mass plantings
Foliage
Broad glossy green ribbon-like leaves
Flower Form
Narrow golden flower spikes
Bloom Cycle
Spring to summer
Growth Habits
Clumping, forms dense mounds
Plant Pairings
Leymus triticoides Lagunita, sedges
Care & Maintenance
Watering Needs
Moderate water needs
Soil Preferences
Wide adaptability from sand to clay
Sun Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Winter Heartiness
< 0° F, USDA zones 4-8
Desert Adaptability
No Available Information
Costal Adaptability
No Available Information