Cinna arundinacea aka Stout Woodreed

Cinna arundinacea is a perennial grass in the Poaceae family. Its common names include wood reed grass and common wood reed. This warm-season grass grows across eastern and central North America. Its range reaches Quebec, Maine, Ontario, and Minnesota in the north. It extends south to Georgia, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas. It grows throughout Missouri and is native to the Midwest. Wild plants grow in wet woods, moist ravines, and damp thickets. They also grow along streambanks. Its species name means reedlike.

Plants grow upright, reaching 2–5 feet [0.61–1.52 metres] tall. Their mature spread reaches about 2 feet [0.61 metres]. The stems, called culms, stand erect and lack hairs. Their light green color contrasts with the gray-green leaves. Each leaf is flat and narrow, with rough edges. Leaves reach about 1.17 feet [0.36 metres] long. They can reach 0.042 feet [0.013 metres] wide. This gives the plant a tall form with slim leaves.

Green flowers appear in July and August. Each culm ends in a panicle with many flowers. These flower heads reach 0.33–0.83 feet [0.10–0.25 metres] long. The panicles nod, while their branches angle upward. Each head has an open outline but holds many flowers. The green blooms sit above the leaves in summer. The upright stems and nodding heads give the plant contrasting lines.

Grow wood reed grass in moist to wet soil. It grows best in loam rich in organic matter. Missouri Botanical Garden lists full sun through partial shade. It favors partial shade and moist soil beneath broken sunlight. Plants grown in full sun need a steady moisture supply. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists full shade as suitable. Both gardens place this grass in USDA zones 4–7. Average garden soil can suit it when moisture meets its needs.

Use this grass in moist woodland beds or native plant gardens. It also suits borders, bedding, and areas left to naturalize. Its upright shape can provide height within these plantings. It tolerates erosion, which adds value on suitable damp sites. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major insect or disease concerns. It describes the plant as easy to grow, with medium maintenance needs. Site moisture remains a key part of its care.