Introduced Phragmites is typically found in ditches, disturbed sites, and can tolerate saline habitats. In the Great Lakes basin, it is frequently found on shorelines (MNFI 2016). The native lineage is usually found in fens, sedge meadow, river banks and shores, and the Great Lake shores (MNFI 2016).

Where can I find Phragmites?

Native Phragmites stands have been found in a few New England marshes. However, native Phragmites has always been a rare, non-invasive species that grows in mixed wetland plant communities. The rest of the information in this fact sheet refers specifically to non-native Phragmites.

Where in the United States the Phragmites is found?

Habitat. The non-native Phragmites occurs throughout the eastern half of the U.S. and in Colorado. In New York, Phragmites is ubiquitous, growing in roadside ditches and swales; tidal and non-tidal wetlands; freshwater and brackish marshes; river, lake and pond edges; and disturbed areas.