Common reed
Phragmites australis subsp. australis, common reed, commonly forms extensive stands (known as reed beds), which may be as much as 0.39 sq mi or more in extent. The erect stems grow to 2 to 6 m tall. The leaves are long for a grass, 20 to 50 cm and 2 to 3 cm broad. The flowers are produced in late summer in a dense, dark purple panicle, about 20 to 50 cm long. Later the numerous long, narrow, sharp pointed spikelets appear greyer due to the growth of long, silky hairs.