Western Rush

(Juncus hesperius)

Western Rush (Juncus hesperius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Juncus hesperius, commonly known as Western Rush, is a perennial herb native to wetlands, including marshes, wet meadows, and streambanks, primarily in the Western United States. It typically grows to a height of 1-2.5 feet (0.3-0.8 meters) and a spread of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). This rush features upright, cylindrical, green stems and produces small, brown, clustered flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do add a subtle texture to the plant’s overall appearance.

Western Rush is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in rain gardens, bioswales, and as a naturalizing element in water features. It is also suitable for erosion control due to its dense root system. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam, as long as they are consistently moist or wet. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetlands, including marshes, wet meadows, and streambanks

Other Names

Common Names: Western Rush, Coast Rush, Hesperus Rush

Scientific Names: , Juncus hesperius, Juncus effusus subsp. hesperius, Juncus effusus var. bruneus,

GBIF Accepted Name: