How to Grow and Care for Rushes

Common rush (Juncus effusus) is a soft, grass-like clumping perennial also known as soft rush. Common rush grows well in standing water or rich moist soil. It grows in small clumps that look like tall grass and spreads by rhizomes. It can be grown in an aquatic setting or indoors as a houseplant.

Spreading Rush is an ornamental plant great for natural wildlife gardens. It is commonly found on stream banks, but is surprisingly drought-tolerant once mature. Its seeds are highly attractive to birds and this perennial spreads through underground rhizomes.

You can find jointleaf rush (Juncus articulatus) growing in many kinds of damp locations like rivers, swamps, and irrigation channels. This rush can be differentiated from similar species by its unique climbing or sprawling growth pattern. The Latin name juncus means to tie and refers to the historic use of these rushes to make cords.

Spiny rush (Juncus acutus) is a versatile plant, growing around the world in salt marshes and desert dunes. Its upright green or brown stems end in a sharp point, which can harm humans and animals. Although favored by some landscapers, it is invasive. It is used for basket weaving by indigenous groups of California.

Poverty rush (Juncus tenuis) is a grass that grows from 15 to 46 cm tall. It blooms from spring to summer with green flowers. Thrives in full sun or partial shade in a variety of soils. Commonly found growing along ponds or wetlands it is generally considered a weed. It attracts butterflies and moths.