If you think all Calamagrostis are like ‘Karl Foerster’, think again! This Asian native is the opposite of its European counterparts: it is a warm season grass that blooms from late summer through early fall.
Perhaps best of all, this grass is shade tolerant, a rare trait for a large flowering grass. This species occurs naturally in moist, deciduous woodlands and therefore is adapted to grow and bloom in partial shade. It also grows very well in full sun where the habit will be tighter and the flowering will be more profuse.
Calamagrostis brachytricha is a beautiful specimen plant and looks stunning in masses where its foliage and plumes are always ready to catch the slightest breeze. It grows well in shade, tolerates hot summers, and produces pink, feathery blooms on tall stalks. Foliage grows in a three-foot, fountain-like mound. Grouped in masses, Korean Feather Reed Grass creates a relaxing, picturesque look in the landscape. It is important to give Calamagrostis brachytricha a good start by watering well at initial planting. Supply additional irrigation the first season, and thereafter it should do well on its own.