Common Spike-Rush, Common spikerush
Eleocharis palustris

Family: Cyperaceae

What it is like

Eleocharis palustris is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Marshes, ditches and the margins of ponds throughout Britain.

An almost cosmopolitan plant, found in most regions of the world including Britain.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Sap eaten. No more information is given.

Sap: usually of trees and usually but not always used as a drink.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

The plant has been used as bedding, for stuffing pillows and to make a pad for sitting on.

Bedding: Used as a lining for sleeping on or putting fruits etc on.

Stuffing: Used in making soft toys, mattresses, pillows etc.

How it is grown

Prefers slightly acid conditions, growing well in shallow water or muddy ground. A very variable species, it is divided into a number of sub-species by some botanists.

Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in the spring in pots standing in shallow water. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring.

Best place to grow: Pond; Bog Garden;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Wet, water

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

E. eupalustris. Lindberg.f.