Karl Foerster

Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ is one of the most reliable and versatile ornamental grasses you can plant. Known for its tall, narrow, upright habit, it adds strong vertical structure to any landscape without taking up much space. In early summer, it sends up feathery, wheat-like plumes that emerge soft green and mature to a warm golden tan, holding their color and form well into winter for year-round interest. Growing about 4–5 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, it’s perfect for screening, lining driveways, or adding height to mixed beds. Exceptionally hardy and low maintenance, Karl Foerster thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions—even heavier soils better than most grasses. Deer resistant and non-invasive, it’s a go-to choice for clean, architectural landscapes with a natural feel.

• Tall upright Habit
  
• Mass planting, screening, lining, vertical accent, mixed border
• Deer resistant
• Drought tolerant after roots get established

'Karl Foerster' Growing and Maintenance Tips

• Spacing: 24-30" for hedge 
• Sun: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Adaptable to most soil types
• Water well to get roots established
• Pruning: Shear back to 4-6" in late winter/early spring

Height: 4-5'
Spread: 2-3'
Hardiness Zone: 4-9

Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’Characteristics

• Exposure: Full Sun- part shade
• Soil Moisture: adaptable to most soils 
• Attributes: Low Maintenance, Deer resistant, drought tolerant
• Season of Interest (Flowering): Spring- Winter (Dried stalks hold shape for winter interest)