Species small-flowered bulrush

small-flowered bulrush

Scirpus microcarpus

Also Known As - wood club rush
A species of bulbous rushes, small-flowered bulrush (Scirpus microcarpus) is a perennial, grass-like herb with creeping rhizomes and large flowerheads, growing up to 30 cm (12 in) tall. It grows best in moist sites, such as wetlands, sandy banks, and occasionally ponds, and is found across North America. Its bright green, linear foliage and clustered spikes of greenish-brown flowers are readily identifiable. It is often confused with other species of Bulrush, but can be distinguished by its small, 3-5 mm (0.12-0.2 in) flowers. It is ideal for wetland restoration, drought tolerant forage, and wildlife habitat.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6

Flowers:

Showy, White, Green Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Filtered shade, Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Bog

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In

Growth Rate:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Small-Flowered Bulrush does best in moist or wet habitats, so it may require more regular watering than other plants. Water enough to keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. During the summer months, it is best to water small-Flowered Bulrush once or twice a week for about 10-15 minutes each time. If the climate is dry or hot, increase watering to every other day. During winter months, water once every 2-3 weeks or only as needed. Ensure that the soil doesn’t dry out completely.

sunlight

Small-flowered bulrush (Scirpus microcarpus) grows best in full sun, and can tolerate a few hours of shade each day. The amount of sunlight the plants need will vary depending on the time of year and the location of the plant. In spring and summer, the small-flowered bulrush should receive at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day; in autumn and winter, it should receive an average of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Sunlight intensity should also be taken into consideration, as hotter, more intense sunlight may cause the plant to wilt or scald quickly. Therefore, placement of the small-flowered bulrush in an area that receives direct sunlight for an appropriate length of time while avoiding intense sunlight in the hottest part of the day is important.

pruning

Small-flowered bulrush should be pruned lightly in late spring and early summer. Pinching the tips of the stems helps the plant form a dense, bushy shape. Pruning can also be done to remove dead flower heads and to thin out any overcrowded and spindly growth. Prune the dead leaves as they occur. If the plants become overcrowded, you can divide small-flowered bulrush plants every 3 to 5 years.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Scirpus microcarpus typically begins in July and ends in September.

Starts Flowering

Small-flowered bulrush typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Scirpus microcarpus typically begins in July and ends in September.

Hardiness Map