Phragmites australis is a reed that forms large beds in a shallow water. Its stems are hollow and round and typically grow to 2m high, but may reach 4m. These stems grow from a system of stout, creeping rhizomes. The flowers are grouped into 'spikelets', which are 10-15mm in length and support 1-6 flowers. Although the extensive system of rhizomes is perennial, in autumn the leaves of the reeds break away from the cover, which hold them in place. The dead reed stem remains in place throughout the winter.
Reeds are still harvested for use in thatching, especially in the Norfolk Broads. Recently, there has been much interest in the potential of reedbeds as water filters as their spreading system of roots can remove nitrates and heavy metals from the water.
I found this species in Fletcher Moss Park in a wetland-like habitat. Because it was already autumn, the stems turned pale yellowish-brown and started drying out. It looked very messy and unmanaged, there were no other plants in the water that was invasively overtaken by Phragmites.
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