Giant reed grass (Arundo donax), a robust perennial grass resembling cultivated bamboo and corn, is among the fastest growing terrestrial plants in the world.

We started with a single plant. We were strolling through a local nursery in the fall of 2005 when it stopped us dead in our tracks, We couldn't resist buying one. Since then, we have divided the stout rhizomes and planted these wonders in different areas of our gardens. By summer's end, our reed grass stood a mighty 15 feet tall with plume-like flowerheads at the upper tips of the stems. Watching their seductive swaying on a windy day makes you feel as if you are on a isolated isle.

Giant reeds are native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East and may have reached as far as India. The plant was actually introduced to California in the early 1800s for roofing material and erosion control in drainage canals. Currently, it is naturalized in temperate and subtropical regions all over the world.

As folk remedies, the rhizomes can be used in the treatment of dropsy. When mixed with wine and honey and boiled, the reed has been used in the treatment of cancer and the stems have been used as splints for broken limbs. The leaves can be woven into mats and baskets.

This spring, we decided to completely reorganize one of our larger islands with Leyland cypress, castor bean plants and giant reed grass as the focal points. We started by dividing the reed grass and positioning it in the center; the original clump was already leaning south toward the sun. We complemented this by interspersing six varieties of ornamental grasses of varying heights throughout the planting bed. We filled in the blanks with dahlias, cannas and daturas (angel trumpets). The birds planted sunflowers and Denise added annual color.The result was an easily tended masterpiece that was weed-resistant and panoramic.

The reeds' strong stems serve as support for vines and climbing plants, and we have used the flowerheads in floral arrangements. What a statement surrounded by other fall foliage!

This month, we will cut paths between the culms of several plants. What could be more appropriate for Halloween than a reed grass maze? Our grandchildren will love it, especially with the addition of a few spider webs and spiders. Enter at your own risk!

Bob and Denise Morgan of Penn, Westmoreland County, were winners of the 2007 Great Gardens Contest, large garden category.