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Calamagrostis foliosa

Leafy Reed Grass, Mendocino Reed Grass

Calamagrostis foliosa is a compact ornamental grass prized for its soft, arching foliage and delicate, feathery flower heads. With its graceful form and fine texture, this species adds year-round interest and gentle movement to garden spaces. The Plant Company supplies healthy, NZ-grown Calamagrostis foliosa plants ideal for borders, mixed plantings, and mass landscaping.

A Calamagrostis foliosa with masses of cream-white blooms.
A cluster of Calamagrostis foliosa plants with cream-white blooms.
A young Calamagrostis foliosa grass with lush green foliage and cream-white blooms.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Grasses
Height:30 cm
Spread:60 cm
Flowering time:Summer, Autumn, Winter
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles:Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asLeafy Reed Grass, Mendocino Reed Grass
Sku17062

Plant size and growth rate

Calamagrostis foliosa forms a compact, evergreen clump reaching about 30 to 60 cm tall and spreading to around 60 cm wide. It has a moderate to fast growth rate, typically establishing well within the first year when planted in suitable conditions. The plant maintains a tidy, non-invasive form and does not spread aggressively, making it ideal for smaller spaces and structured plantings.

How to grow Calamagrostis foliosa in NZ

Calamagrostis foliosa grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers free-draining soil with moderate moisture. It is well suited to coastal and temperate areas in NZ, where it tolerates wind and salt exposure. Plant in spring or autumn, spacing each plant about 45 cm apart. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce watering once the plant is settled. Cut back spent flower stems in late winter to tidy the plant and encourage fresh growth. It performs well in borders, rock gardens, and low-maintenance landscape designs.

Calamagrostis foliosa garden uses

Calamagrostis foliosa is ideal for coastal gardens, rockeries, native plantings, and low-maintenance borders in NZ. Its compact form and fine texture make it perfect for mass planting, edging paths, or softening hard landscaping. It also suits modern, naturalistic, or drought-tolerant gardens where structure and movement are desired. The airy flower stems add seasonal interest, while the evergreen foliage provides year-round appeal.

Why buy Calamagrostis foliosa from The Plant Company?

Buying Calamagrostis foliosa from The Plant Company ensures you receive vigorous, NZ-grown plants that are well-suited to local conditions. Their plants are healthy, garden-ready, and ideal for creating structure in coastal or low-maintenance gardens. With expert support, quality assurance, and free shipping on larger orders, The Plant Company is a trusted source for premium ornamental grasses.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Calamagrostis foliosa (Leafy Reed Grass)? We are here to help.

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