Common rush
Juncus conglomeratus
Family: Juncaceae
What it is like
Juncus conglomeratus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Wet pastures, bogs, damp woods etc, almost exclusively on acid soils..
Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa and W. Asia
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The stems are used in basket making, thatching, weaving mats etc.
Basketry: Plant used in making baskets and other items such as chairs. Includes plants that are only used as an ornamental addition.
Thatching: Used for making thatched roofs.
Weaving: Items such as grass and palm leaves that are woven together for making mats, baskets etc. See also Basket making and Fibre.
How it is grown
Easily grown in a moist soil, bog garden or shallow water. Prefers a heavy soil in sun or light shade. This species is closely related to J. effusus.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in pots in a cold frame in early spring and keep the compost moist. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer if they have grown sufficiently, otherwise in late spring of the following year. Division in spring. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Pond; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist, wet, water
Things to keep in mind
Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, there is a report that one member of this genus is possibly toxic to mammals..