Tall narrow plumes give Calamagrostis acutiflora Karl Foerster strong vertical form without taking much ground space. Pink-purple flower heads rise above green leaves, then mature through brown and gold for fall and winter. The columnar clump can punctuate a perennial bed, create a light screen, or repeat through a prairie-style design. Its stems remain upright in wind.
Full sun produces the strongest stems and fullest plumes. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and summer heat. A light spring compost topdressing is enough, since heavy nitrogen can weaken the growth. Leave the dry stems standing through winter, then cut the clump to the ground before new shoots appear. Aphids are occasional visitors, and open spacing helps reduce rust after prolonged rainy weather.
