Giant Reed/Arundo donax
Common names: Giant Reed, Spanish Reed
The Giant reed is thought to be native to eastern Asia but was introduced to the United States in the early 1800's. Giant reed was mainly introduced for erosion control but it crowds our native plants, reduces wildlife habitat, modifies river hydrology, and even contributes to higher fire frequency and intensity. Arundo is exceptional at growing at an average of about 4 inches per day and can grow to a mature height of 25 feet in only 12 months! Arundo invades shallow streams and river banks, marshes, and other open wetlands and ditches.
The Giant reed is thought to be native to eastern Asia but was introduced to the United States in the early 1800's. Giant reed was mainly introduced for erosion control but it crowds our native plants, reduces wildlife habitat, modifies river hydrology, and even contributes to higher fire frequency and intensity. Arundo is exceptional at growing at an average of about 4 inches per day and can grow to a mature height of 25 feet in only 12 months! Arundo invades shallow streams and river banks, marshes, and other open wetlands and ditches.