I've been growing reed cane (arundo donax) in Southern Maryland for about 5 years. These pictures were taken Sept. 15, 1998 and shows 2nd year growth with the tufts on top. It has been a dry year and plants have not been watered or fertilized. The 2nd year growth will be harvested in the winter.

I think Maryland is about as far North as cane can be grown, as they do not survive winters well without mulching.