Juncus effusus, commonly known as Common Rush, is an evergreen grass-like perennial herb, that thrives in a variety of wetland habitats including marshes, wet meadows, and along the edges of ponds and streams. It is native to temperate regions worldwide, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. This species typically forms dense, grass-like clumps reaching approximately 1.5 meters (4 ft 11 in) in height. The stems are smooth, cylindrical, and hollow, with a light pith filling. In summer, it produces small, greenish-brown flowers clustered at the top of stems. The lower leaves are reduced to a brown sheath at the stem’s base. Common Rush is valued for its vertical accent and texture in water gardens, native plant gardens, wildlife habitats, and for natural landscaping and restoration projects.

Juncus effusus is adaptable to a range of wet soil conditions, from standing water to moist garden soil, and can tolerate partial shade, although it prefers full sun. It is a low-maintenance plant that can be used to stabilize soil and provide habitat for wildlife. However, it can become invasive outside its native range, spreading aggressively in suitable wetland conditions. Gardeners should ensure it is not a listed invasive species in their region before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0