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Schoenoplectus lacustris

common club-rush

An evergreen perennial rush, to a height of up to 2m, with round, solid green stems and a very vigorous root system. Brown to green flowers, in loose bunches appear from the tops or sides of the stems throughout summer

Other common names
bast
club-rush
see morecommon bulrush
common club-rush
frail rush
lake club-rush
mat rush
pool rush
spurt grass
bulrush
Moses in the bulrushes
Synonyms
Scirpus lacustris

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Brown Green
Autumn Green Brown Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Cyperaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Tufted
Genus

Schoenoplectus are moisture-loving, rhizomatous evergreen perennials with grass-like foliage and insignificant brown flowers in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, Mediterranean, to Mongolia, S. Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile wet soil, or in water up to 30cm (12in) deep, in full sun. Avoid planting in lined ponds, where the roots can pierce the liner. This bullrush is vigorous plant and best planted in large, natural/clay puddled wildlife ponds where it can spread. Alternatively, plant in containers of heavy loam. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division. Root sections of rhizome from mid-spring to midsummer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Trim back regularly to restrict spread

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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