Brian Eversham
Common club-rush
Scientific name
Schoenoplectus lacustrisThe dark green, straight and spiky stems of common club-rush or 'bulrush' are a familiar wetland sight. They are ideal for weaving and were traditionally used to make baskets, seats and mats.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Height: up to 3mConservation status
Common.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The stout and tall common club-rush is an abundant plant of shallow water, including the margins of lakes, ponds, canals, slow-moving rivers and ditches. It flowers from June to August and spreads using rhizomes (underground stems). Its straight, rounded stems are ideal for weaving and it was regularly used to make baskets, seats and mats. Mixed with scented herbs, it was also used to line the cold stone floors of churches and halls before carpets and floorboards became common.How to identify
Common club-rush has dark green, spiky stems that are rounded in cross-section. The stems bear loose flower heads with brown, egg-shaped spikelets (containing the flowers).Distribution
Widespread.Habitats
Did you know?
In common with great reedmace, common club-rush is also sometimes known as 'bulrush'.
Bertie Gregory/2020VISION