Calamagrostis canadensis
Blue Joint Grass
General
A clump and colony forming grass that is native to most of the continental United States. Found most commonly in bogs, swamps, shore edges, and shallow water. It is useful for assisting in recovery following disturbance or wildfire.
Plant Description
A robust perennial grass native to North America. It forms dense clumps of tall, upright stems that can reach heights of up to six feet, creating a substantial presence in wetland and riparian habitats. Its foliage consists of narrow, blue-green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for its airy, feathery flower heads, which emerge in late spring and persist through summer, adding texture and movement to the landscape. Long, narrow blades, with occasional joints. Inflorescences may be purple or green when young, and tan when older.
Height (ft)
2-5
Soil moisture
Medium
Soil types
Moist or Wet soils, Fine or Medium textured
Wetland indicator
FACW+
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
Brown
Bloom period
Summer
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Northern United States. In the east, from Maine to Delaware, in the states bordering the Great Lakes, and following the Appalachians south through the West Virginia/Virginia border to North Carolina. Common everywhere west of the Rocky Mountains.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to the Native Plant Trust, the Cree people used this species to line pits where they would store their potatoes.