蘆葦

Morphology

Root: The plant has a robust rhizome system that can spread extensively underground.
Stem: The stems are tall, stiff, and erect, reaching heights of up to 6 meters .
Leaf: Leaves are long, flat, and alternate with a prominent midrib.
Flower: Flowers are produced in dense, silky panicles at the stem tips during late summer.
Seed: Seeds are small, lightweight, and capable of being dispersed by wind.
Fruit: The fruit is a minute, dry, one-seeded structure called a caryopsis.

Aquatic Adaptations

Its extensive rhizome system helps stabilize the plant in soft substrates and aids in asexual reproduction.
Aerenchyma tissue in the roots and stems facilitates oxygen transport to submerged parts, enabling the plant to survive in oxygen-poor environments.
It can tolerate varying water levels and salinity, making it resilient to changing aquatic conditions.

Distribution

Native Distribution:

Current Geographical Distribution:

It is now found worldwide, often becoming dominant in disturbed wetlands and aggressively expanding in non-native regions.

Ecology

Habitat: Commonly found in fresh and brackish wetlands, along riverbanks, lakeshores, and roadside ditches.

Pollination: The plant is primarily wind-pollinated.
Dispersal: Seeds are dispersed by wind and water, while rhizome fragments can also help in spreading the plant.

Applications and Interesting Facts

Applications:

Common reed is used for thatching roofs, making mats, and crafting musical instruments. Its rhizomes and shoots are sometimes used in folk medicine.

Interesting Facts:

Despite its invasive nature in many parts of the world, it is considered a vital component of wetland ecosystems, providing habitat and food for numerous wildlife species.
It is studied for its potential in phytoremediation, as it can absorb pollutants from contaminated waters.