Calamagrostis canadensis, commonly known as Bluejoint Grass, is a native perennial grass found in wetlands, meadows, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This grass features slender, bluish-green leaves that form dense, upright clumps. In late spring to early summer, it produces feathery, plume-like flower heads that are initially purple or reddish and gradually turn golden-brown as the season progresses. The plant can grow to a height of 2 to 5 feet and has an attractive, graceful appearance, especially when the flower heads sway in the wind.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Calamagrostis canadensis is a great choice for wetland restorations, rain gardens, or naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with consistent moisture. It provides valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife, and its seeds are eaten by various animals. This plant is also useful in erosion control projects due to its fibrous root system, which helps stabilize soil in wet areas.
Calamagrostis canadensis, commonly known as Bluejoint Grass, is a native perennial grass found in wetlands, meadows, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This grass features slender, bluish-green leaves that form dense, upright clumps. In late spring to early summer, it produces feathery, plume-like flower heads that are initially purple or reddish and gradually turn golden-brown as the season progresses. The plant can grow to a height of 2 to 5 feet and has an attractive, graceful appearance, especially when the flower heads sway in the wind.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Calamagrostis canadensis is a great choice for wetland restorations, rain gardens, or naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with consistent moisture. It provides valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife, and its seeds are eaten by various animals. This plant is also useful in erosion control projects due to its fibrous root system, which helps stabilize soil in wet areas.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: bogs; fens; marshes; poorly drained areas along railroads; prairie swales; sandy pannes near Lake Michigan; sedge meadows; swamps; wet to moist dolomite prairies; wet to moist prairies; wet to moist sand prairies
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): grass (2 to 5 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: clay; loam; sand; silt
