Description

An emergent aquatic plant (rooted in shallow water, but leaves and stems extend out of the water). Large triangular dark green stems with brownish inflorescences hang pendulously from spring to fall, inviting dragonflies to stop for a visit. Stems are unusually spongy. Attracts birds.

Great bulrush typically forms a slowly-spreading clump of rush-like stems by creeping rhizomes. Clumps may be divided in spring. If happy and left undisturbed, will spread sometimes aggressively to form dense colonies.

Height: 4-8 ft.
Spread: 3-6 ft.
Family: Cyperaceae
Bloom time: May to September
Sun: full sun
Water: wet
Rain garden, naturalize

photo credit: Christian Fischer