Growing up to 8 metres tall Giant reed (Arundo donax) forms dense stands, a prominent feature of the Skopelitian countryside. Once regarded as a Mediterranean native, giant reed is now considered to have been introduce into the Mediterranean Basin in prehistoric times, spreading along with civilisation throughout the region from the Indus Valley in what is now Iraq. It has since spread throughout most of the world including America and Australia and is regarded as one of the most invasive species in the world, crowding out native species, particularly in riparian environments. Historically Traditionally reeds had many uses: in construction, as roofing, fences  for making baskets, walking sticks, fishing rods. More recently it has been used for biomass power generation. One of the most interesting uses has been for musical wind instruments, including pan pipes. It is still valued as the source of reeds for wind instruments.