Common Reed

Common Reed  (Phragmites)

Common Reed (Phragmites) is found just about all over the world. Common Reed spread vigorously by underground rhizomes and therefore is not suited for the normal garden. It has its use as a water purifier in large natural ponds. Be aware that the root tips will penetrate normal pond liners! Common Reed likes it in the sun or half shade. In summer, Common Reed has large plumes of flowers usually starting off dark purple and soon fading to straw yellow. There are now also a few variegated varieties being supplied. You could plant them in a large pot, without holes alongside a pond. Because of its strong rhizomes, Common Reed does not grow well in the 9 cm pot it is supplied in. When planting out, give it some time to establish properly.