Grass - Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Avalanche'

Provides nesting habitat and cover for birds and beneficial insects

Seed heads may attract small seed-eating birds in late season

Adds habitat value in naturalistic plantings

Spring: fresh variegated foliage emerges in upright clumps

Summer: tall, feathery plumes rise, providing peak display

Fall: seed heads turn golden-tan, foliage begins to fade

Winter: dried plumes and stems remain upright, offering winter interest

– Borders, specimen plantings, mass plantings, naturalistic meadows, modern landscapes, cut/dried flower arrangements, vertical accent for structure

Upright, linear leaves with striking white central variegation edged in green

Leaves form a narrow, vertical clump 2–3 feet tall before flowers emerge

Foliage remains attractive throughout summer and fall

Feathery, wheat-colored flower plumes rise above foliage in early to midsummer

Blooms open purplish-green, aging to golden tan and persisting into winter

Seed heads provide vertical accent and movement in the landscape

Plant in fertile, moist but well-drained soil; adapts to clay, loam, or sandy soils

Site in an open, sunny position for best growth and flower production

Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for clump expansion

Plant crown level with soil surface; water well after planting

Best planted in spring or early fall so roots can establish before temperature extremes

Cut back clumps to 4–6 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges

Deadheading is not necessary; seed heads provide ornamental winter interest

Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring to maintain vigor

Moderate; prefers consistently moist soil, especially in summer

Tolerates short dry periods once established but not prolonged drought

Avoid waterlogged sites, which cause crown rot

Full sun (6+ hours daily) is ideal for strongest growth and flowering

Tolerates light partial shade, but flowering may be reduced

Plumes can be cut and dried for floral arrangements or left standing for winter beauty

Foliage not harvested for other uses

Low to moderate fertilizer needs; too much fertilizer causes floppiness

Apply a light top-dressing of compost in spring to refresh soil nutrients

Avoid heavy feeding, which promotes weak growth

• Wind-pollinated grass; produces small, inconspicuous florets
  
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  Not grown for pollination or fruit production
  

Pairs well with perennials such as Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Nepeta, Salvia, and Coreopsis

Combines beautifully with other grasses like Panicum and Miscanthus for layered texture

Excellent with late-summer bloomers like Aster and Helenium

Works well in modern, cottage, or naturalistic landscapes