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Name this 'Not really a grass' please

Posted by liska swOH 6 (My Page) on
Tue, Oct 7, 08 at 10:42

Last year I posted about a large, clumping, pluming grass I saw in Missouri. I got a few responses, but most people assumed it was a Pampas. I've got Pampas grass. I know Pampas grass. This is no Pampas grass. It's not really a grass.
Foliage stands about 8' and plumes 12'. The leaves are more like corn stalks than grass. The clumps had spread quite a bit in the past year. I have a photo, but don't see where I can attach it here. Anyone recognize this plant?


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: Name this 'Not really a grass' please

If it looks like corn stalks it is probably Arundo donax - which is, actually, a grass. (as is corn) I wouldn't have thought it would flower (plume) that far north.

Did it look anything like this?


Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting


Here is a link that might be useful: or lots of images here


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RE: Name this 'Not really a grass' please

You nailed it! Thanks so much for the info~. Looks interesting but invasive. Guess I'll pass on that one. At least now I know. Thanks again!


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RE: Name this 'Not really a grass' please

liska,
you don't have to pass on Arundo donax. It would not be the least bit invasive in zone 6. It is only a thug in warmer climates & in particular in wetlands. People in France are growing it for bio-fuel. And supposidly, where it gets really big, they use the 'cane' for instruments.
Kind of a cool plant :o)


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arundo donax - more

forgot to mention.
you should do a search for Arundo donax on this forum.
There are some really interesting postings with great photos.
a.


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RE: Name this 'Not really a grass' please

Hey achnatherum,

You're right. Those posts make me want to rethink this plant. I have almost an acre of land, which can handle a plant that size without looking out of place. Doesn't actually appear to be invasive. I'd love to have the canes to support various veggies and vines. Thanks!


 
 

 

 


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