A common reed found at the edges of estuaries, native to North America providing important habitat for wildlife. Once considered an invasive species introduced from Europe, but evidence points to Phragmites being a native plant. The reed beds can serve as water filters, make thatched roofs and even paper. Though Phragmites act as a good buffer from erosion and runoff, growth can be so prolific to encroach on marsh habitats causing problems for other wetland plants and wildlife. It can be controlled by regular grazing by live stock and many places are now employing goats for this purpose.
