Native Plant Alternatives to Phalaris arundinacea (Ribbon Grass)

Phalaris arundinacea, commonly known as reed canary grass or ribbon grass, is considered invasive in many regions. Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this species has aggressive growth habits that allow it to form dense, monocultural stands that crowd out native plants.

It thrives in wet areas but can also tolerate dry soils, and this adaptability makes it a particularly troublesome invasive species in wetlands, riparian areas, and other moist habitats.

The grass produces densely clustered, straw-colored seedheads from May to mid-June or until the fall. It has a dense root system that aids in rapid vegetative reproduction and makes it resistant to control efforts.

Ribbon Grass is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.