What are the differences between silvergrass flowers and reeds? A quick guide to tell them apart

Silvergrass has well-developed underground rhizomes, often with a powdery substance at the nodes, tufts of purplish-red hairs at the base, and long oval caryopses (grains). Reeds, by contrast, have aerenchyma tissue in the leaves, leaf sheaths, stems, rhizomes and adventitious roots; a large panicle with numerous branches; hairless spikelets; a lemma with two rough keels; yellow anthers; and a caryopsis about 1.5 mm long.

I. An introduction to silvergrass

1. Environment

It grows on hillsides, along roadsides and streams, and in abandoned places of all kinds; it is especially lush in moist, sunny spots and is extremely common.

2. Distribution

It is scattered across Yangmingshan in Taiwan, China. In ancient times, the Saisiyat people of Taiwan, China used it in the (Pasta'ay) ritual ground, spreading it there to ward off evil and pray for peace.

3. Value

It blooms in autumn and is a pollen-producing plant. The tender inner part of the stem can be eaten.

II. An introduction to reeds

1. Growth and distribution

Reed is a widely distributed polymorphic species worldwide. It grows along rivers, lakes and ponds, ditches and canals, and in low-lying wet areas. Except in forest habitats, in all kinds of open areas with a water source, its rapid spreading reproductive capacity often forms continuous stands of reeds.

2. Value

Ecological: it can absorb phosphorus from water, which can inhibit the growth of blue-green algae; it can regulate the climate and conserve water sources; and it purifies wastewater;

Economic: reed stems have a relatively high cellulose content and can be used to make paper and artificial fibers;

Landscaping: reeds are often planted by the water and are especially beautiful in the flowering season, making them suitable for ornamental use;

Livestock: reeds have high biomass, and reed leaves, reed flowers, reed stems, reed roots and reed shoots can all be used in animal husbandry, with relatively high feed value.

Medicinal: reed is sweet, cold and non-toxic. It clears heat, promotes body fluid production, relieves restlessness, stops vomiting, counteracts fish and crab poisoning, and clears heat and releases the exterior.