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(Scirpus polyphyllus)
Leafy Bulrush (Scirpus polyphyllus)
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© Ryan Sorrells
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
© Ryan Sorrells
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Ryan Sorrells | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: rynxs | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Scirpus polyphyllus, commonly known as Leafy Bulrush or Manyleaf Bulrush, is a deciduous perennial grass native to freshwater wetlands, marshes, and riparian zones in Western North America. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and features a clumping habit with narrow, grass-like leaves. The inflorescences consist of green or brown flowers that bloom in the summer and are not particularly showy, but they do contribute to the plant’s naturalistic appeal.
Leafy Bulrush is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in water gardens, rain gardens, and for erosion control along waterways. It provides habitat and food for wildlife, particularly birds. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and prefers slow-draining clay or loam soils that retain moisture. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can spread vigorously in ideal conditions and may require management to prevent unwanted expansion.CC BY-SA 4.0
Leafy Bulrush is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in water gardens, rain gardens, and for erosion control along waterways. It provides habitat and food for wildlife, particularly birds. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and prefers slow-draining clay or loam soils that retain moisture. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can spread vigorously in ideal conditions and may require management to prevent unwanted expansion.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: High, Aquatic
- Drainage: Slow, Standing
Common Uses
Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Freshwater wetlands, marshes, and riparian zones in Western North America
Other Names
Common Names: Manyleaf bulrush
Scientific Names: , Scirpus polyphyllus, Dichromena cymosa, Holoschoenus brunneus, Phaeocephalum cymosum, Rhynchospora cymosa, Rhynchospora cymosa, Schoenus cymosus, Scirpus americanus, Scirpus brunneus
GBIF Accepted Name: