Contents
Description
Eleocharis Palustris Subsp. Palustris, commonly known as marsh spike-rush, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Europe and North America and grows in wetlands, marshes, and shallow water bodies. The plant has a slender stem that reaches a height of up to 50 cm and is topped with a spikelet of tiny flowers. The leaves are thin and narrow, and the plant reproduces through seeds and rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eleocharis |
Appearance
Marsh spike-rush has a distinctive appearance with its thin, slender stem that branches at the top to form a spikelet of tiny flowers. The stem is greenish-brown and can reach a height of up to 50 cm. The leaves are long, thin and bright green, growing directly from the base of the stem, and they can reach up to 1 mm in width. The plant reproduces through seeds and rhizomes, which can spread rapidly and form dense mats.
Care Guide
Marsh spike-rush requires specific care and attention to thrive. Here are some guidelines:
- Water: Marsh spike-rush is a water-loving plant that requires consistently moist soil. It can tolerate shallow water, but the water should not be deep enough to cover the entire stem.
- Fertilization: Marsh spike-rush does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Marsh spike-rush prefers sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Marsh spike-rush prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Marsh spike-rush is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Marsh spike-rush is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections, such as rust and smut. These can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and using a fungicide. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled by using an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Marsh spike-rush is native to wetlands, marshes, and shallow water bodies in Europe and North America. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and water conditions, including brackish water. It is an important plant for wetland ecosystems, providing habitat for many species of birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is marsh spike-rush a good plant for a water feature?
A: Yes, marsh spike-rush is an excellent plant for a water feature, as it requires moist soil and can tolerate shallow water.
Q: Can marsh spike-rush be grown in a container?
A: Yes, marsh spike-rush can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and provided with enough space to grow.
Q: How often should marsh spike-rush be watered?
A: Marsh spike-rush should be watered consistently to maintain moist soil. The amount of water required will depend on the size of the plant and the environment it is growing in.
Q: Can marsh spike-rush be propagated through stem cuttings?
A: Marsh spike-rush can be propagated through seed or rhizome division, but not stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Eleocharis dulcis
- Eleocharis acicularis
- Eleocharis palustris subsp. elongata
References
- MartÃnez, M. L., & Pizarro, H. (2011). Eleocharis palustris (Cyperaceae), a new record for the flora of Chile. Gayana. Botánica, 68(2), 316-318.
- Muschner, V. C., & Abrell, L. (2009). Eleocharis palustris (Cyperaceae) in Illinois. The Michigan Botanist, 48(1/2), 27-30.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Eleocharis palustris (L.) Roem. & Schult. subsp. palustris. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ELPAP2
