SafePlants

Sweet Woodreed (Cinna arundinacea)

Sweet Woodreed, scientifically known as Cinna arundinacea, is an attractive grass noted for its potential use as a substitute for invasive species. It's also known by several other common names.

Considerations for Pets

• As a grass, it can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities by pets.

Common Names

• Sweet Woodreed
• Stout Wood Reed-grass
• Stout Woodreed
• Sweet Wood-reed
• Common Woodreed
• Stout Wood Reed Grass
• Wood Reedgrass

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Cinna
• Species: arundinacea
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family), also referred to as Gramineae

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to eastern Canada and the eastern and central USA.
• Found in locations like Queen Anne's Co., Maryland, and Caroline Co. MD.
• Typically found in wetland habitats and rich floodplain soils.

Ecological Role

• Offered as a substitute for the invasive Japanese stilt-grass (Microstegium vimineum).
• Used for erosion control, in storm-water retention ponds, and in wildlife habitats.
• Herb layers are characterized by grasses and sedges, including sweet woodreed.

Morphological Characteristics

• Described as a tall and attractive grass.
• Herbaceous plant with narrow leaves.
• Stems can be arched and dangle over water.
• Green foliage and green flowers.

Quirky Facts

• The arched stems of sweet woodreed dangling over the water are poetically compared to "the graceful arms of dancing ballerinas."

Additional Information

• Information is available on the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
• Further details on its biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution can be found on Discover Life.
• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.