PLANT PROFILE

Phragmites australis
common reed



Phragmites australis

Phragmites australis
Phragmites australis

Photos courtesy Renee Brecht
Britton & Brown
Botanical name: Phragmites australis
Common name: common reed
Group: monocot
Family: Poaceae
Growth type: subshrub
shrub
graminoid
Duration: perennial
Origin: varies; a native strain, but most of what is seen in NJ is a more invasive and aggressive situation, European, introduced
Plant height: 6 - 12'
Foliage: leaf blade is flat and smooth
Flower: open panicle with purplish or tawny appearance
Habitat: wetlands, can tolerate moderate salinity
Range in New Jersey: statewide
Heritage ranking, if any: n/a
Distribution:
Misc. This plant often displaces other flora and is extremely difficult to eradicate. It tolerates moderate salinity. Several states consider it a noxious weed.
For more information on Phragmites australis, see USDA