Origin
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney, also known as Arctic reedgrass, is a species of grass that is native to the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is commonly found in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and the Arctic regions of Russia.
Common Names
Arctic reedgrass is known by various common names, including Arctic bentgrass, purple arctic reedgrass, and Arctic purplegrass. These names reflect the distinctive purplish-red color of the inflorescences and the predominantly bent shape of the stems.
Uses
Arctic reedgrass is an important species in the Arctic tundra ecosystem, serving as a critical component of the vegetation cover and a source of food and habitat for a variety of animals, such as caribou, muskoxen, and migratory birds. The plant has also been used traditionally by Native Alaskans as a material for weaving baskets and mats due to its strength and flexibility.
General Appearance
Arctic reedgrass is a perennial grass that typically grows in dense clumps or stands, up to 50 cm tall. Its stems are rigid, straight or bent, and feature blades that are narrow, elongated, and green. The inflorescences are cylindrical and vary in color from reddish-purple to brownish-yellow. The plant blooms in late summer to early autumn, with the flowering period lasting for about two to three weeks.
Light Requirements
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica is adapted to cold climates and can withstand temperatures as low as -50 degrees Celsius. However, it can also grow at milder temperatures ranging from 0 to 20 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 to 7.0. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and gravel. However, it requires a soil with good water retention capacity to survive in arid conditions. The plant is also tolerant of soil salinity and can grow in coastal areas.
Cultivation
The Calamagrostis purpurascens R.Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives best in moist environments. This plant can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. But it prefers well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It is also cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures of up to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Propagation of Calamagrostis purpurascens R.Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney can be done by dividing the plant or by sowing seeds. For seed sowing, prepare a mixture of equal parts of sand and peat moss. Sprinkle the seeds over the top of the soil mixture and press them lightly. Keep them moist but not waterlogged until germination. Seeds can take anywhere between two to six weeks to germinate. Lining out the seedlings in a well-prepared bed is the best way to propagate this plant.
Watering Needs
Calamagrostis purpurascens R.Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogging. In dry weather conditions, deep watering once a week is enough to keep the plant healthy and hydrated. During the winter months, reduce watering to avoid over-saturating the soil.
Fertilization
Calamagrostis purpurascens R.Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from a handful of slow-release fertilizer in early spring. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 16-16-16 or 10-10-10 is ideal. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually by scattering it over the root zone and watering it in.
Pruning
Calamagrostis purpurascens R.Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney does not require pruning, but removing the lower leaves in late winter helps to improve airflow and prevent fungal diseases. Dividing the clumps every three years is also useful. Cut back the foliage to a height of 3 to 6 inches before dividing it.
Propagation of Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney can be propagated using different methods. Some of the major propagation methods are:
Division:
The plant can be propagated through division. This involves dividing the plant into smaller parts and replanting them. This is generally the easiest and most effective method for propagating this plant. This method is best done in the spring or fall. When dividing, make sure that each division has a good root system and a few new shoots. The plant can be divided every two to three years to keep it healthy and vigorous.
Cuttings:
This plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings in the summer and rooting them in a rooting hormone. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and should have a few leaves attached. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into a pot or directly into the garden.
Seed:
This plant can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be sown in the fall or the spring. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and lightly covered with soil. They should be kept moist and warm until they germinate. Once they germinate, they should be transplanted into individual containers and grown on until they are large enough to be planted in the garden.
Propagation of Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica (Vasey) Kearney is relatively easy and straightforward. With proper care, the plant can be successfully propagated through any of these methods.
Disease Management:
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica is generally considered to be a low-maintenance plant and not prone to many diseases. However, fungal leaf spots, rust, and powdery mildew may occur in certain conditions.
Fungal leaf spots cause small, circular dark spots on the leaves, which may enlarge and merge. Rust causes reddish-brown spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew is a white powdery substance that grows on the upper surfaces of the leaves. These diseases can be managed by removing infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and promoting good air circulation around the plant.
If the fungal infection persists, you may consider using a fungicide. Always read and follow the instructions on the product label carefully before applying any chemical treatment.
Pest Management:
Calamagrostis purpurascens R. Br. var. arctica is generally not susceptible to pests. However, some common pests that may occasionally attack this plant are aphids, spider mites, and cutworms.
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing distortion and yellowing. Spider mites also suck sap but also spin webs on the leaves. Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the leaves and stems at the base of the plant.
You can manage these pests by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, removing affected plant parts, and handpicking the cutworms. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant. Again, always read and follow the instructions on the product label carefully before applying any chemical treatment.
Keeping the area around the plant free of debris and weeds, and maintaining the plant’s health by providing adequate water and nutrients, can also help prevent pest infestation.
