Common Spike-Rush

(Eleocharis palustris)

Common Spike-Rush (Eleocharis palustris)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Eleocharis palustris, commonly known as common spike-rush, creeping spike-rush, or marsh spike-rush, is a perennial herb native to a wide range of wetland habitats including marshes, fens, wet meadows, and the margins of ponds and streams across Europe, North Africa, northern and central Asia, and North America. It typically grows to a height of 1 foot and can spread 1-2 feet wide. This sedge forms dense mats of grass-like stems and produces small, brownish spikelets. The plant is not particularly showy, but it is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and filter water.

Eleocharis palustris is often used in wetland restoration projects and as a water garden or pond plant due to its adaptability to wet conditions and its ecological role in providing habitat for wildlife. It is also used in rain gardens and bioswales for its water filtration properties. This spike-rush thrives in full sun to part shade and requires high amounts of water, making it suitable for areas with poor drainage. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require control to prevent it from spreading too widely.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to marshes, fens, wet meadows, and the margins of ponds and streams

Other Names

Common Names: Creeping Spike-Rush, Marsh Spike-Rush, Common Spikerush, Almindelig Sumpstrå, Gemeine Sumpfsimse, Gewöhnliche Sumpfbinse, Scirpe Des Marais, Gewone Waterbies, Creeping Spikerush, Spikesedge

Scientific Names: , Eleocharis palustris, Scirpus palustris, Heleocharis palustris, Eleocharis palustris var. vigens, Eleocharis palustris var. glaucescens, Scirpus paluster, Eleocharis glaucescens, Scirpus eu-paluster, Heleocharis striata

GBIF Accepted Name: Eleocharis palustris (L.) Roem. & Schult.