Phragmites Kharka
Other names: Tall reed, Arundo karka
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Phragmites Kharka, or Arundo karka, also known as stiff reed, is a species of plant belonging to the lichen family. It is considered to be a highly invasive species that spreads easily and can adapt quickly to a variety of environments. The plant, which usually grows up to seven metres tall, is native to Asia but is now widespread on all continents except Antarctica.
Arundo karka has many uses. Its main application is in the paper industry, where it is used to produce high quality paper. It is not only found in books, but also in musical instruments, especially woodwinds. The plant is also used in agriculture as nutritious fodder for livestock. Reed canary grass also has a place in medicine, where its antimicrobial properties are exploited. Recently, it has also been increasingly used in the production of biofuels, replacing more traditional raw materials such as maize or sugar cane.