Bulbous Rush

(Juncus bulbosus)

Bulbous Rush (Juncus bulbosus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Juncus bulbosus, commonly known as Bulbous Rush or St. Catherine’s Lace, is a perennial herb native to a wide range of habitats including wetlands, marshes, and the edges of ponds and streams across North America, Europe, and North Africa. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters) and is characterized by its clumping growth habit and round, hollow, grass-like stems. The flowers are small, brown, and clustered at the stem tips, blooming in the summer. Although not showy, they add a subtle texture to the plant’s appearance. The plant’s ability to grow in water makes it useful for erosion control and water filtration in its native habitat.

Bulbous Rush is valued for its adaptability to wet conditions and is often used in water gardens, rain gardens, and for naturalizing in wet areas. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers very slow draining clay or loam soils, with high to very high amounts of water. This plant is low maintenance and can be an excellent choice for areas where other plants might struggle due to excessive moisture. However, it can become invasive in some regions, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

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

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High, Aquatic
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to a wide range of habitats including wetlands, marshes, and the edges of ponds and streams across North America, Europe, and North Africa

Other Names

Common Names: St. Catherine’s Lace

Scientific Names: , Juncus bulbosus, Juncus bulbosus var. eusupinus, Juncus bulbosus var. maroccanus, Juncus bulbosus var. scapiger, Juncus subverticillatus var. erectus, Juncus supinus subsp. eusupinus, Juncus supinus var. nanus, Juncus supinus var. prolifer, Juncus supinus var. repens

GBIF Accepted Name: