Spiked Woodrush
(Luzula spicata)
Spiked Woodrush (Luzula spicata)
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Matt Lavin
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Matt Lavin
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Matt Lavin | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Matt Lavin | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-08-01T10:24-07:00 |

























Estimated Native Range
Summary
Luzula spicata, commonly known as spiked woodrush, is a perennial herb native to subalpine and alpine meadows, tundra, and high mountain regions across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. It typically forms dense, grass-like clumps reaching up to 13 inches in height, with erect, reddish stems. The plant produces an inflorescence consisting of clusters of small, brown, bristle-tipped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a subtle charm to the alpine garden landscape.
Spiked woodrush is valued for its ability to thrive in cool, moist conditions and is often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in borders in areas that simulate its native alpine habitat. It prefers partial shade to full sun and requires well-drained soils with consistent moisture. While it is not known for any significant horticultural problems, it can be sensitive to overly dry conditions. This plant is also appreciated for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to provide texture and greenery in challenging garden spots.CC BY-SA 4.0
Spiked woodrush is valued for its ability to thrive in cool, moist conditions and is often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in borders in areas that simulate its native alpine habitat. It prefers partial shade to full sun and requires well-drained soils with consistent moisture. While it is not known for any significant horticultural problems, it can be sensitive to overly dry conditions. This plant is also appreciated for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to provide texture and greenery in challenging garden spots.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
- Width: 0.5-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: High
- Drainage: Medium, Slow
Common Uses
Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Subalpine and alpine meadows, tundra, and high mountain regions
Other Names
Common Names: Spiked Luzula
Scientific Names: , Luzula spicata, Gymnoides spicata, Juncoides spicatum, Juncus thyrsiflorus, Juncus thyrsiflorus, Luzula spicata var. spicata,
GBIF Accepted Name: