Phragmites australis

The miracle plant, known as the common reed or Phragmites australis.

This is the plant that actually liberates oxygen through the root stolons and is finding more and more favour for not only improving pond water but also for cleaning foul water. 

Reeds also have a great history including the story of Moses being drawn out of the water where his mother had placed him in a reed basket to save him from the death that had been decreed by the Pharaoh against the firstborn of all of the children of Israel in Egypt.

• Perennial grass.
• Prefers full or part sun position.
• Can be grown in damp ground or water up to 3 feet (1 metre) deep.
• Reaches 11 feet (3.5 metres) tall.
• Flowers July to September.
• Very important for wildlife and conservation.
• Roots can be invasive.

• Culinary Uses
• Can be made into flour and eaten.
• The sugary gum that comes from the stems eaten as sweets.
• Roots can be eaten like potatoes.

• Medicinal Uses
• Can be used to treat chlorea and food poisoning.
• Can be eaten to treat diarrhoea, fevers, vomiting and coughs.
• Also used to treat toothache.

• Other Uses
• Can be used to filter water.
• Can be used to thatch a roof.
• Can be made into a musical instrument similar to a flute!
• Can be used to make baskets, mats or paper.
• Aborigines sometimes use it to make spears.