Leafy Reed Grass
Calamagrostis foliosa
Care
full sun, part shade
moderate
Medium; Tolerates a variety of soils as long as drainage is good.
1–2ft tall , 2–2ft wide
Resistant
Friendly
Coastal prairie and grassland from Marin County to Santa Cruz County, below 1000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Leafy Reed Grass in full sun to part shade in a location with good drainage - it tolerates a variety of soils as long as water doesn't pool around the roots. Space plants about 1-2 feet apart since they form tight tufts 1-2 feet tall. Plant in fall or early spring to give the roots time to establish before summer heat.
After Planting
Water weekly during your first summer to help it establish, then cut back to once weekly or less during subsequent summers once established. The #1 mistake is overwatering or planting in poorly draining soil, which will rot the roots; this is a coastal native that doesn't need much water once it's settled in. Year one is about root development, so be patient - by year two you'll have a full, low-maintenance bunchgrass that deer won't bother.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Clapper Rail; federally and state endangered
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Dense reed cover essential for concealment and breeding habitat in coastal marshes
Critical nesting habitat in dense reed stands; builds woven nests Apr-Aug
Reed beds used for nesting and territorial perching Mar-Aug
Persistent seed availability supports year-round populations
Dense reed beds provide nesting cover and aerial insect hunting substrate during breeding Apr-Jul
Migration staging and winter foraging on seed heads, Sep-Mar
Winter and migration period foraging on grass seeds, Oct-Apr
Mammals
Small seeds accessible year-round; important for breeding season protein
Evergreen foliage provides persistent cover and browse throughout year
Autumn seed collection and caching for winter stores