|
History and Description
The giant reed is originally from
India and is also known as bamboo or wild cane. It was introduced into America
probably in the early 1800’s.
The giant reed can grow over 29 feet tall. It grows along
riversides and streams. The giant reed can easily catch on fire. It can float
miles down a stream or river and take root where it stops.
The giant reed is found in Arkansas, Texas, California, Virginia, and Kentucky.
It mostly grows in the southern states. It was first discovered in the United
States in Los Angeles and California in the early 1800's. Now it is found
in several states.
The giant reed is a perennial plant that can grow 6-20 feet tall. The stems are
hollow and are about 1”` in diameter. Leaves on the plant are arranged in rows
on each side of the stem. The leaf blades on the main stem are 1 ½ to three
inches broad and flat.
Uses
The
giant reed has a lot of different uses ranging from music to medicine. Old pipe
organs were made from it. It is also used to make baskets, fishing rods,
livestock fodder, medicine, and soil erosion control.
Reproduction
The giant reed has amazing
reproductive abilities. Its reproduction is mostly vegetative. The rhizomes
root and sprout easily, forming new plants. This ability helps the giant reed to
out-compete all of the native species.
Ecological
Threat
The giant reed is a very
aggressive species. It displaces nearly all the native species in the area it
invades. It forms dense thickets and seems to promote fires.
In areas where the giant reed out-competes native
species, it changes the food sources for the wildlife living in the area. Most
animals do not use the giant reed as food. A small number of animals use the
giant reed for shelter.
Control
The giant reed can
be controlled by cutting, chopping, or mowing it. Mowing must be done repeatedly
to prevent re-growth. If only one mowing can be done, it should be done when
the flowers begin to form. During this time, the food supply in the roots is
nearly gone, and the seeds haven’t been produced yet.
| 
