Reed

Reed is a common name for several tall, grass-like plants of wetlands. They are members of the order Poales (and the families Poaceae or Cyperaceae), which also includes the grasses, bromeliads, and sedges. The most commonly referred species, Phragmites australis, is known as the common reed.

Description

Reeds are tall, perennial plants that usually grow in damp or wet areas. They have hollow stems and long, narrow leaves. The flowers are usually small and inconspicuous, but are grouped together in large, dense clusters.

Distribution and habitat

Reeds are found in a wide range of habitats, including marshes, fens, and along the banks of rivers and lakes. They are often dominant components of the vegetation in these areas. They are also found in man-made habitats such as canals and ditches.

Uses

Reeds have been used by humans for thousands of years for a variety of purposes. They have been used for thatching roofs, making mats and baskets, and for making musical instruments such as the reed pipe and the bagpipe. They are also used in some traditional medicines.

Species

There are many species of reeds, including the common reed (Phragmites australis), the giant reed (Arundo donax), and the reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea).

See also

• Wetland
• Marsh
• Fen
• Thatching
• Reed pipe
• Bagpipe

References

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