Common reed, Tropical Reed
Phragmites karka

Family: Poaceae

What it is like

A large grass. It grows 1.5-3 m high. It is similar to Phragmites australis but has more narrow leaves. These are rough underneath. They end in a stiff, sharp point. The flowers are white and brown.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows near creek banks and rivers. It grows in tropical and subtropical places. It is often near rivers and the edges of mangroves.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China, Chuuk, Guam, Guinea, Guinée, Guinea-Bissau, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mariana Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pohnpei, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, West Africa, Yap

How it is used for food

The young tips of the stems can be eaten.

Edible parts

Shoots

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. They should be soaked for 3-4 months then sown in waterlogged soil.

Its other names

Local names

Bagnarri, Bichhra, Hulugilu, Karka, Karriso, Khaila, Khailuwa, Maitantos, Nagasvaramu, Nairi, Nal, Nala, Nalam, Nali, Nannana, Nara, Narkat, Narkul, Noto, Oncoco, Perunanal

Synonyms

Arundo karka Retz.; Arundo roxburghii Kunth; Phragmites roxburghii (Kunth.) Steud.; Phragmites nepalensis Nees ex Steud.; Phragmites maxima Blatter & McCann in part; and others