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Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster'

4.8 from 5 customers

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' is a popular ornamental grass known for its upright, clump-forming habit and tall, feathery flower plumes. It grows to around 1.5 to 2 metres tall and forms narrow green foliage that turns golden in autumn. Flower spikes emerge in late spring and hold their form well into winter, adding structure year-round. Hardy and low maintenance, it thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, making it ideal for borders, mass planting, or contemporary NZ gardens.

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses as a mass planting and featuring elegant, cream-coloured flower heads as plumes.
Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses in a border garden with elegant, cream-coloured flower heads.
Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses in a modern garden with Lavender plants.
Young Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Highly aesthetic Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses as a mass planting.
Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses as a backdrop to a seated area.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Grasses
Height:1.20 m
Spread:60 cm
Flowering time:Summer, Autumn, Winter
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses:Containers, Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku13054

What is the optimum Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grass spacing?

The optimum Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grass spacing for the plants to merge and become an effective ground cover is 40-50 cm apart. However, if you want them to grow as a unique plant, they will need to be spaced at least 80 cm apart. The spacing for having them merge to a limited degree is 50-60 cm apart.

Plant size and growth rate

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' typically grows 1.5 to 2 metres tall and about 60 to 90 centimetres wide, forming a narrow, upright clump. It has a moderate to fast growth rate, reaching near full size within one to two growing seasons.

How to grow Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' In NZ

To grow Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' successfully in New Zealand, plant it in full sun with well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. It tolerates a range of soils, including clay, as long as drainage is good. Water regularly during dry periods, especially while establishing, but avoid soggy conditions. Cut back the foliage in late winter before new growth appears to maintain its upright form. This grass is hardy, frost-tolerant, and thrives in most regions of New Zealand with minimal maintenance.

Why Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' is ideal for NZ gardens

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' is ideal for New Zealand gardens thanks to its upright, tidy growth habit, year-round structure, and adaptability to a wide range of climates. It thrives in full sun, tolerates frost and wind, and performs well in various soil types, including clay. Its tall, feathery flower spikes add movement and texture, making it perfect for borders, mass planting, or modern landscapes. Low maintenance and hardy, it suits both rural and urban NZ garden settings beautifully.

Why buy Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' from The Plant Company?

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' from The Plant Company is a premium, NZ-grown ornamental grass known for its upright form and year-round interest. Each plant is carefully raised to thrive in local conditions, including wind, frost, and coastal exposure. It is low maintenance, fast establishing, and ideal for borders or mass planting. The Plant Company offers expert advice, rapid dispatch, and free delivery on orders over $150, making it a trusted source for this versatile landscape grass.

Questions and Answers

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Reviews

4.8 from 5 customers
Walter Hernandez - Canterbury
Glenys Taylor - Auckland

Nice plants. Thank you.

Francis Mason - Waikato

Great plants, thank you!

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