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Figure 1 U.S. Distribution of Phragmites australis
Figure 2 Phragmites australis
Figure 3 Phragmites australis rhizome
Figure 4 Phragmites australis Inflorescence
Phragmites australis is also known as the Common Reed. It is widely distributed across the entire United States excluding only Alaska. It is know to be distributed through USDA hardiness zones of 4-10. It is nearly globally distributed in freshwater wetlands. Although it is native to the U.S. it is still considered a noxious weed in some states.
Description:
Phragmites australis is a robust wetland grass, which can grow 3-4 meters tall. It is a member of the grass family Poaceae, and is the tallest species in southern U.S. marshes and swamps. It propagates through rhizome growth, stolons and by seeding. The leaf blades are flat and smooth extending 15-45 centimeters long and 1-5 centimeters wide. The purple-brown inflorescence is 20-40 centimeters long extending from the superior aspect of the shoot. Inflorescence appear between July and September and persist throughout the plants dormant phase in winter. The seeds are brown and lightweight, usually distributed by wind. The common reed is a colonial species thriving in areas with like species distribution.
Ecology:
Phragmites australis is an aggressive invasive species, persisting thought a wide range of climates. Much of its persistence is due to cloning or vegetative reproduction. Clones can be extremely long lived and can cover relatively large areas. Clones commonly expand by lateral growth of large rhizomes, less commonly they may send out fast growing stolons. The Common reed is often eaten by grazing cattle and horses during the warm season. More recently Phragmites australis has been studied for it role in bioremediation, cleaning of waters containing waste products including heavy metals and sewage.
Uses:
The varieties of uses of the common reed are about as diverse as its distribution. Its numerous uses range from thatching to nutrition. The fibers from the common reed are used in rope, rayon and paper. Its fibers are over 50% cellulose. Some forms are used as ornamental grasses in landscaping. Young shoots are sometimes used as a vegetable. The stalks exude a gum-like substance that is eaten. It is also commonly used in folk medicine. It is sought after as a remedy for arthritis, bronchitis, cough, diabetes, fever and gout to name a few.