Square Stem Bulrush - Scirpus Pungens

Square Stem Bulrush – Scirpus Pungens grows in colonies and reaches an average height of 4 feet at maturity. It survives best in full sun exposure. Square Stem Bulrush is green and blooms June through September. The triangular stem has sharp edges, and small buds on the stem are covered in yellow or brown colored scales. These grass-like blades grow up to eight inches long with a deep crease in the center. There are three varieties of Bulrush in the Northern Americas. As they mature they turn from a dull gray color to black. Square Stem Bulrush thrives best in USDA zones 2-9.

Square Stem Bulrush is an excellent choice for wetlands.

Square Stem Bulrush can survive in a few feet of standing fresh water and is an excellent choice for planting in naturally occurring wetlands. It is typically found along a lake, river shores, and marshes. The Square Stem Bulrush can be used to help prevent soil erosion. It thrives best when planted in wet soil that is clay, loam, peat or sand. It grows naturally in most wetland areas of the United States.

Square Stem Bulrush is easily cultivated.

Square Stem Bulrush can be easily cultivated by transporting rhizomes and seeds onto moist soils that occasionally dry during the winter or in shallow wetlands. The Square Stem Bulrush can be invasive invaders of ponds and is hard to control once it takes root. So careful placement during cultivation is recommended.

Various birds and ducks often eat the seeds of the Square Stem Bulrush. Muskrats, wild geese, and nutria all like to munch on the rhizomes and early shoots of the plant. It also makes excellent cover for wetland inhabitants.

Companion Plant Recommendations: Suggestions for pairing with the Square Stem Bulrush. Carex comosa, Carex vulpinoidea, Iris versicolor, Mimulus ringens, Verbena hastata or Juncus effusus.