Invasive Species Council of Manitoba

Reed Canary Grass

Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea

Reed Canary Grass can dominate wetlands for decades, preventing other species from growing.

Origin

Botanists believe there are both native and non-native types of this plant. The non-native type comes from around the Mediterranean.Â It was introduced into North America by European settlers.

Status

Reed Canary Grass is found throughout North America, including Manitoba. It is almost impossible to tell the native and non-native plants apart.

Impacts

Reed Canary Grass prevents other species from growing and reduces biodiversity.

Where to Look

This plant lives in wet meadows, wetlands and along streams. It is often seen in the same areas as Purple Loosestrife.

Identification

Leaves: flat, greyish-green, 9 to 25 cm long. They are often rough on both surfaces.

Stems: light green to straw colored, hairless and hollow.

Flowers: purplish and grow in dense, branching clusters.

Reed Canary Grass

Reed Canary Grass ISCM Fact Sheet

2011 Rural Municipality Distribution Map

2010 Rural Municipality Distribution Map

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Invasive Species Council of Manitoba

Reed Canary Grass

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