Eleocharis obtusa - Spike rush

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Native Wetland Plants

Eleocharis obtusa

Spikerush

More About Spikerush

  • Low growth habit
  • Prolific seeder
  • Tolerant of water level fluctuation

Eleocharis obtusa, Spike rush, is typically one of the first colonizers of a freshly dug storm water basin or pond. Eleocharis obtusa forms attractive lime green clumps 1' tall topped with a blunt dark brown seed head in mid summer. This fine textured pioneer has the look of fiberoptic grass and is very tolerant of fluctuating water levels. Spike rush is ideally suited for rain gardens, conservation projects, basins, and storm water run off projects. Dense stands of Spike rush are a wonderful habitat for frogs, damselflies and dragonflies.

Bloom Color

White

Eleocharis obtusa Characteristics & Attributes

Exposure
Sun
Mature Height
< 1'
Spread Characteristics
Clumping
Prolific Seeder
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Spring
Summer
Fall
Pond Zonation
Low Marsh 0 - 6"
Foliage Color
Green
Wildlife Benefits
Amphibians
Cover
Fish
Food
Nesting
Waterfowl
Critter Resistance
Deer Resistant
Wetland Indicator Status
OBL
Plant Type
Bog/Marsh
Flowering Perennial
Marginal
Rush
Attributes
Container
Erosion Control
Fibrous Roots
Great Foliage
Mass Planting
Native
Naturalizing
Rain Garden
Storm Water Basin
USDA Hardiness Zone
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11