Common Reed-Phragmites australis

A rather large member of the Grass Family (Poaceae) is the common reed (Phragmites australis), often called Phragmites. It can grow up to about fifteen feet tall and often grows in dense stands in wet areas. There is some debate over whether the species is native or not, but it appears that the more aggressive, invasive variety is from Europe.

Old seed heads look fluffy and bend over. New ones are produced in July and are brownish in color.
New growth emerges from the old growth, creating a thick mat of vegetation that is difficult to penetrate.
For more information about common reed, click here.