Species PlantsCommon Reed

Common Reed

Phragmites australis

CommonPlant
Illustration of Common Reed (Phragmites australis)

Common Reed is a tall, aggressive grass of wetlands that forms dense monocultures in marshes and wet areas across North America. A native subspecies exists alongside a more aggressive introduced subspecies that has invaded and degraded many coastal and inland marshes. Despite its invasive reputation, it provides important cover for marsh birds and mammals.

Habitat
Freshwater and brackish marshes, wet ditches, and wetland margins
Diet
Provides nesting and roosting for red-winged blackbirds and marsh wrens
How common
Common

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