About This Plant
Cinna arundinacea, known as Wood Reed Grass, is a graceful native perennial grass that thrives in moist woodlands, riparian areas, and shaded meadows. Blooming from mid to late summer, its tall, arching stems bear loose, airy panicles of pale green to purplish-tinged spikelets that sway elegantly in the breeze. This soft, feathery texture adds movement and a natural charm to woodland plantings and restoration projects.
Wood Reed Grass grows 3–5 feet tall, forming dense, upright clumps that flourish in rich, moist soils with partial to full shade. It tolerates occasional flooding and adapts well to various wetland conditions, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing streambanks, woodland edges, and rain gardens. Its broad, flat leaves remain lush and vibrant throughout the growing season, providing valuable cover for wildlife.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Cinna arundinacea plays an essential role in supporting native ecosystems. Its seeds offer food for small birds, while its foliage provides habitat for insects and nesting materials for pollinators. This non-aggressive grass self-seeds modestly, creating gentle drifts over time without overwhelming other vegetation.
Wood Reed Grass is a low-maintenance and deer-resistant species, ideal for naturalized landscapes, shady rain gardens, and riparian buffers. Whether planted in masses for erosion control or as an accent in woodland understories, it enhances biodiversity while adding texture and movement to the landscape.