Hardstem Bulrush
Schoenoplectus acutus

Family: Cyperaceae

What it is like

A sedge. These grow in clumps and have grass like leaves and solid stalks. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 1-3 m tall. It has a tough, thickened brown rhizome. The stems are unbranched and do not have leaves. The flowers grow near the tip of the stem. There are a cluster of heads. These are made up of overlapping scales. The fruit or seeds are hard and flat and 3-5 mm long.

There are about 100 Scirpus species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows on the banks of streams, lakes and ponds.

Countries/locations it is found in

Canada, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The young shoots and tender roots can be eaten raw. They can be sliced and served in salads. The roots and shoots can be boiled and eaten. The young shoots can be boiled for several hours to make a sweet syrup. The seeds and pollen can be ground into flour. This can be used for biscuits.

Edible parts

Leaves, roots, seeds

How it is grown

It can be grown from seeds or by division of the clump.

Its other names

Local names

Tule

Synonyms

Schoenoplectus lacustris subsp. acutus (Muhl. ex Bigelow) A. Love & D. Love; Scirpus acutus Muhl. ex Bigelow;