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Northern Reedgrass (Calamagrostis stricta)

Northern Reedgrass, scientifically known as Calamagrostis stricta, is a grass species with several recognized subspecies and varieties. It is also known by common names such as New England Northern Reed Grass, slimstem reedgrass, and narrow-leaved reedgrass.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calamagrostis stricta (Timm) Koeler
• Subspecies: Several, including Calamagrostis stricta subsp. inexpansa (A. Gray) C.W. Greene and Calamagrostis stricta var. borealis.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Mentions also include Calamagrostis inexpansa, though this is often considered synonymous with, or a part of, C. stricta.

Distribution and Habitat

• This species has a circumboreal distribution, meaning it is found in the northern regions of the globe.
• Specifically, it's found in Subarctic, Boreal, and northern temperate regions, including Greenland, Canada, the USA, Mongolia, Europe, and Asia.
• It typically grows in moist, open habitats, such as mossy rock crevices, rocky openings, and sandy shores.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Calamagrostis stricta is a perennial grass.
• It's rhizomatous, meaning it spreads via underground stems.
• It is similar in appearance to Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster', but perhaps slightly shorter.

Ecological Role

• In some regions, like the mentioned area in western North America, it is considered rare and may be protected.

Quirky Facts

• The distribution of Calamagrostis stricta spans continents. The same species is found in the northern regions of Europe and Asia, as well as North America.