Common Reed/Phragmites

QUICK IDENTIFICATION

  • Hollow stems
  • Blue-green alternate leaves along top half of stem
  • Dense plumes at top of plant are Christmas tree-shaped
  • Height from 6 to 15 feet

Video Information


Weed Pictures



Weed Information


Type Information
Toxicity Non-toxic
Control Mowing and aquatic herbicide. Contact your County Weed District or local applicator for more information.
Habitat Interior wetlands, lake margins, roadside ditches, and other low, wet areas.
Root Horizontal roots producing new shoots
Leaf Shape Long, flat and lance-shaped
Lifespan Perennial; two years or longer
Priority 1A Weed Not present or limited presence in Montana. If you think you’ve found this plant, please contact your county weed coordinator or MT Department of Agriculture immediately.
Similar Looking Plants Native common reed
Important Information Native Phragmites can contain little black spots, which are from a fungus that only affects the native species, so it is a good identifier. Proper identification fo this plant is difficult, so please consult an expert for proper ID.
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