Drawing Phragmites australis Common reed C ommon reed is a tall emersed plant. It can grow in water several feet deep, or on the shores, and can cover large areas. It is found in swamps and along lake shores and canals. C ommon reed has stiff, erect stems that can grow 6 to 15 feet high. Leaves of reed grow alternately along the top half of the stem.
Leaves are up to two feet long.
Common reed has a large, silky inflorescence that grows at the tops of the stems. A typical inflorescence may be one to two feet long, and several inches wide. They drape to one side.