Common reed is a large perennial herbaceous plant with long broad leaves and a large, dark ruffle. With its robust, deep-rooted rhizome it grows large and dense vegetation. Common reed can grow up to 4 meters long, usually about 1 to 3 meters high.

Common reed grows on beaches, ditches and marshes. Prevalence area covers almost the entire globe.

Common reed is a very diverse plant. It is used, among others, for canopies, fences, insulation and as a substrate for gardens. Harvesting of common reed has a long history and its mowing favors other species adapted to the habitat.

Common reed is a powerful breeder and has conquered more habitats through eutrophication of waterways and reduced grazing of livestock. The edges of reed beds are important habitats for many different insects and bird species. In addition to their diversity, reed beds are also fast growing and absorb nutrients from the water and carbon dioxide from the air.