reed canarygrass Phalaris arundinacea L.
Family: Poaceae
Life cycle: Perennial, reproducing by seed and rhizomes.
Habitat: Disturbed areas, wetlands
General description: Erect, tall growing (up to 8 ft) perennial. Leaves are flat, hairless, ¼ to ¾” wide and with a rough texture. Large, transparent membranous ligule. Stems up to ½” diameter, larger stems hollow. Upper stems often have a reddish cast. Compact panicles are erect or slightly spreading, up to 16” long with branches up to 12” long. Seedheads become light to golden tan.
Key ID traits: Tall stems; large, transparent ligule. Usually found in dense patches in wet areas. Rough leaf edges can cause ‘paper cuts’.
Miscellaneous: There are both native and exotic biotypes found throughout Iowa and the U.S. The exotic biotypes are more aggressive, but there are not reliable ways to distinguish the two. Reed canarygrass has been widely planted for forage and erosion control in poorly drained areas of pastures. The cultivated varieties typically are Eurasian biotypes selected for vigor (invasiveness). Reed canarygrass is a major problem in prairie restorations.
- Retired Weed Scientist and Professor of Agronomy
- Field Agronomist in Central Iowa