Giant Reed, Spanish Cane (Arundo donax)

Giant Reed, Spanish Cane
Scientific Name: Arundo donax L.
Family: Poaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: All zones
USDA: 8b-11

Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: India, Mediterranean largely naturalized in the USA
Growth Habits: Tall, perennial grass, fast growing up to 20 feet tall (6 m), fleshy, creeping rootstocks; elongate leaves, 1 to 2 inches wide (2.5-5 cm) 1 foot long (30 cm)
Watering Needs: Likes a moist soil
Propagation: Division, offsets

The Giant Reed is very invasive make sure it is not released in the wild and plant it only where you can control it. It is a serious problem in California's wetlands.
The somewhat woody stems are strong enough to make trellises or stakes. Their use has been documented to make musical instruments during the last 5000 years.

Blooming Habits:
The flowers are borne in 2-foot long, dense, plume-like panicles during August and September.

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