Overdam Feather Reed Grass: A Guide for Gardeners
Introduction
Overdam feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’) is a beautiful ornamental grass that adds interest and texture to any garden. It’s a variegated variety of feather reed grass, known for its attractive, striped blades of bright green and white. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for Overdam grass.
What is Overdam Feather Reed Grass?
Overdam feather reed grass is a naturally occurring hybrid between Asian and European species of grass. It’s a cool-season grass, meaning it grows best in spring and fall. It’s hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9.
Growing Conditions
Overdam grass prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hotter areas. It grows well in most soil conditions, even clay, which sets it apart from many other ornamental grasses. It likes moist to wet soil.
Appearance
The foliage of Overdam grass is bright to light green, with borders that are white to cream-colored. It grows in a clumping pattern, reaching 1.5 to 2 feet in both height and spread. In the summer, it puts up stunning flower and seed plumes that are golden in color and can reach 6 feet in height.
Benefits of Growing Overdam Grass
- Easy to grow and low maintenance
- Adds interesting shades of green and white to the garden
- Provides stunning height, texture, and color with its flower and seed stalks
- Sterile seeds, so there’s no danger of unwanted spreading
How to Grow Overdam Grass
Growing Overdam grass is easy. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
- Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
- Water deeply after planting.
- Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Overdam Grass Care
Overdam grass is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require some basic care:
- Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Cut back the foliage in late winter to make way for new spring growth.
Companion Plants for Overdam Grass
Overdam grass pairs well with a variety of other plants, including:
- Perennials with colorful flowers, such as daylilies or coneflowers
- Shrubs with interesting foliage, such as Japanese maple or smoke bush
- Other ornamental grasses, such as blue fescue or maiden grass
Conclusion
Overdam feather reed grass is a beautiful and easy-to-grow ornamental grass that can add interest and texture to any garden. With its variegated blades, stunning flower and seed plumes, and low-maintenance nature, it’s a great choice for both experienced and beginner gardeners alike.
