Juncus effusus

Common Name
Soft rush
Common rush
Plant Form
Grasses, Sedges & Rushes
Duration
Perennial
Max Height (ft)
3.0
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain

Photographer: Jeff Clark
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Photographer: Jeff Clark
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Additional Info

Habitat: In a wide range of open and forested wet habitats, natural and disturbed. Common throughout.

Wildlife value: Waterfowl, songbirds, and small mammals eat rush seeds. Rushes provide habitat for amphibians and spawning areas for fish. Various wetland wading birds find shelter among the stems.

Notes: Prefers moist or wet but tolerates dry. Spreads by rhizomes (may be too much in some places) and self-seeding. Can be used in container gardening in sun or part shade. Container should not have holes. 

Flower Color
Gold/Yellow
Green
Bloom Time
Spring
Early Summer
Late Summer
Fall
Fall Color
Brown/Copper
Gold/Yellow
Light Requirements
Full sun
Partial sun
Shade
Moisture Requirements
In Water
Wet
Moist
Good Choice for Public Spaces
Yes
Deer Resitant
Yes
Seed or Fruit eaten by wildlife?
Yes
Bona Terra Nursery

Small family-run native plant nursery with a focus on the local genetics necessary to restore diversity in the Chesapeake eco-region. Offers free remote design service for small gardens up to 400 square feet. Orders are placed via email and items can be picked up at their NW DC office or delivered for a fee. This plant list is from the beginning of the 2025 season and may be out-of-date

Pots Available Pot Size Notes Add to Wishlist
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