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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Calamagrostis brachytricha

Korean Feather Reed Grass

Calamagrostis brachytricha
Family
Poaceae
Height
3-4 feet tall
Width
2-3 feet wide
Flower color
Soft, fluffy pinkish plumes that age to silvery tan
Foliage color
Medium green leaves
Bloom time
Late summer to early fall
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Medium
Maintenance
Low; cut back in late winter
Growing zone
USDA Zones 4-9
Wildlife
Attracts birds and provides winter interest

About this plant

Calamagrostis brachytricha, commonly known as Korean feather reed grass, is an ornamental grass valued for its soft, feathery plumes that emerge in late summer to early fall. The flower heads start off a smoky pink, gradually fading to silvery shades as they mature, creating a light, airy effect that catches the sunlight beautifully. These delicate plumes rise above the arching, green foliage, swaying gracefully in the breeze and adding movement to garden beds and borders.

Native to East Asia, this grass thrives in a variety of garden settings, from mixed borders to naturalistic plantings. Its elegant, late-season blooms make it an excellent choice for autumn interest, and the plumes persist well into winter, providing texture and structure as the seasons change. Calamagrostis brachytricha is also appreciated for its ability to complement both flowering perennials and other ornamental grasses, enhancing depth and variety in garden designs.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Bird Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Daylilies · Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.