Calamagrostis canadensis (Bluejoint Grass)

Long-lived and incredibly hardy, Calamagrostis canadensis (Bluejoint Grass) is a clump forming, cool-season, perennial grass boasting numerous slender, erect blue-green stems adorned with prominent joints. Arising from small rhizomes, they are topped with large, arching inflorescence in summer. Purplish at first, the flower plumes turn to a tan color as the season progresses. Beautiful in all seasons, whether blue-green in summer or blonde in winter, Bluejoint Grass is a key element of wet prairie and sedge meadow restorations. Its rhizomatous nature helps provide streambank stability. Historically, this plant was an important food for bison. It is also a source for food and shelter for a variety of birds and small mammals. Calamagrostis canadensis is the most common and widespread Calamagrostis species in North America. Because of its shallow roots and rapid spread, it forms a good sod on wet sites.

• Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Spreads aggressively by shallow rhizomes and self-seeding.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in acidic, moist to wet soils.
• Perfect for moist areas including open woods, swamps, marshes, bog gardens, rain gardens, or along ponds and streams. Effective at stabilizing stream banks.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Cut back in early spring before new growth starts.
• Best propagated from seed. Cant be propagated by division. Seeds require cold-moist stratification for 5 days.
• Native to North America. Widespread over all of Canada and Greenland and over most of the U.S. except for the Deep South from Texas to Florida.