About Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth
Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth is a perennial grass with long rhizomes and medium green foliage. Its culms are erect, measuring 60–200 centimetres (24–79 in) in length. Leaf-blades are up to 70 centimetres (28 in) long, with a width of 3–14 millimetres (0.12–0.55 in), and sometimes reach 20 millimetres (0.8 in). The ligule is 4–12 millimetres (0.16–0.47 in) long, with an acute shape and a lacerate texture. This species produces an erect panicle that is 15–30 centimetres (5.9–11.8 in) long, oblong in shape, and nearly lanceolate. Spikelets are 4.5–7 millimetres (0.18–0.28 in) long, with an extended rhachilla. Glumes are scaberulous and lanceolate, while the lemma is only half the length of the glume. Awns measure 1–2.5 millimetres (0.04–0.10 in) and are positioned near the middle of the lemma. The large inflorescence is a rich brown colour, and the flowers form dense, narrow spikes 25–35 centimetres (10–14 in) long. Calamagrostis epigejos has a wide distribution across temperate Eurasia, ranging from France and Great Britain to Japan. A distinct variety occurs in southern and eastern Africa. It is cultivated as an ornamental grass for gardens.
