Sweet Reed Grass, Drooping woodreed
Cinna latifolia
Family: Poaceae or Gramineae
What it is like
Cinna latifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Woods and mountains in N. Japan. Damp woods in N. America.
Europe, N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, New Jersey and Washington. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Seed. No further details are given but the seed is very small and fiddly to utilize.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. See the plants native habitat for ideas on its cultivation needs.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist