The Perennial Plant of the Year for 2001 is Feather Reed Grass, Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster,' one of the most versatile, attractive, and low maintenance ornamental grasses. The loose feathery flower inflorescences are pale pink in June, maturing to a golden tan color that lasts through the fall season. This grass grows in a narrow 18 inch wide clump, making it ideal for a tight spot or a spot where you want a tidy plant. The flower stems reach up to 5 feet in height.

Feather Reed Grass combines well with Russian Sage, Purple Coneflower, and Black Eyed Susan, all excellent easy to grow perennials that are past Perennials of the Year. Often described as the "perpetual motion grass," Feather Reed Grass moves gracefully in the slightest breeze. Movement adds a great dimension to landscape designs.