Common Name(s): | Giant reed, Giant cane, Carrizo cane, Spanish reed |
Scientific Name: | Arundo donax |
Family: | Poaceae |
Growth Traits: | Introduced, Perennial, Warm |
Description: Native to the Mediterranean region and Asia, giant cane was introduced to North America to control erosion. It forms dense stands and can grow to 20 feet tall and has hollow stems. The leaves are flat and can be up to 1.5 feet long with an inflorescence that can be up to 3 feet long. It spreads vegetatively by rhizomes and stem nodes. Giant reed can grow in upland areas but commonly creates dense monocultures along rivers, streams, ponds, lakes and low areas. These monocultures displace native vegetation and reduce diversity that is important to wildlife habitat. Some birds and rodents use giant reed for cover and food. Giant reed is used to make wind instruments, fishing rods and baskets. |
Chemical Control Options: Imazapyr and/or glyphosate. |
Mechanical Control Options: Cutting and digging are only temporarily effective due to rhizomatic growth. Cutting or burning followed by herbicide can be successful. |
Biological Control Options: Goats have been shown to graze giant reed. |