Common Reeds love to grow near bodies of water, on boggy fields or in wetlands. The distinctive reeds can range from green to golden brown in colour and the outer shell encases a white spongey substance that feels like foam to the touch.

Reedbeds of Common Reed, if left alone, would naturally be encroached by scrub and become woodland. For many years, though, they have been cut and managed to produce reed for thatching building roofs; this form of management keeps the habitat intact which provides a valuable home for lots of wildlife.

Common Reed grows from creeping rhizomes (underground stems) and flowers from August to October.

It forms extensive golden-brown reedbeds that make an important home for many species, including rare and threatened species like the Bittern, Marsh Harrier and Bearded Tit.