Common Reed
Phragmites australis

Photo by Dr. John Meade, weed scientist emeritus
Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension
A large grass with stout, almost woody, stems often used for thatch roofs. It is found in wet soils, especially in roadside ditches. It has a much branched flower head. It spreads rapidly and widely by means of rhizomes and stolons. Tolerates salt water.
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