Reed

Grass family Description: reed always forms large stands. Its long rhizomes constantly grow and branch, occupying new areas. In strong gusts of wind the stems of the reed can bend so that they touch the water surface, but almost never break.

Reed stands are ecologically important: when established on marshy or boggy sites, reed gradually turns them into drier areas: the large mass of leaves and stems evaporates a great deal of moisture, effectively drawing it out of the wet soil. Reed contributes to the formation of peat. People use reed as livestock fodder, and weave mats, baskets, and lightweight garden furniture from it. In treeless areas the stems serve as fuel and as raw material for papermaking; they are sometimes used to roof sheds. Tender young shoots of the reed are edible, tasting similar to asparagus.

based on materials from the website www.delasoft.ru