The objective of the research project was to assess the chemical composition of the reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and its variation from selected meadows dominated by this grass in the Wielkopolska region. Investigations were carried out in the years 1999–2003 on the plant material derived from selected valley permanent meadow complexes situated in the regions of Wielkopolska, especially in the Note River valley. Samples of plant material from successive regrowths were collected for chemical analyses during the vegetative period from selected 15 objects. Using commonly applied analytical methods, the concentration of nitrogen compounds, chlorophyll dyes, elements of carbohydrate-lignin complex and mineral components were determined. The obtained results indicate that the chemical properties of Phalaris arundinacea justify the placement of this species in the group of valuable fodder grasses. One of the characteristic features of the chemical composition of reed canary grass is its close to optimal concentration of crude protein and mineral components. However, in order to promote this grass as interesting fodder grass, it is necessary to supply appropriate quantities of its seeds to the market. The seed problem can be solved temporarily by the registration of foreign cultivars, but a long-term solution is the development of native cultivars of Phalaris arundinacea. The observed variability in the occurrence of organic and mineral components indicates that there are possibilities of selecting proper material for breeding of this grass species.