Common rush, soft rush, Juncus effusus Seeds

Soft rush (Juncus effusus) is a clump-forming perennial for wet ground, 60–120 cm tall, with smooth green cylindrical stems and no true leaves. It needs soil that stays wet or constantly moist.

Also known as: Soft rush, Common rush, Flatter-Binse (German), Jonc épars (French), Deng xin cao (Chinese).

Sow on the surface

• Sow in early spring or autumn.
• Leave the seed on the soil surface; light helps it germinate.
• Keep the soil wet or constantly moist.

Where to plant

Pond edges, rain gardens, wetland plantings and low spots that hold water, in full sun to partial shade. Once established it tolerates both flooding and occasional drought.

How it spreads

The plant spreads by rhizomes and forms dense stands; its deep roots help hold soil that tends to erode. Thin it now and then if it spreads further than you want.

Traditional uses

The strong, flexible stems have long been used for baskets, mats and crafts, and as rushlights. Small brownish-green flowers appear near the top of the stems in summer.

We have no sourced emergence time and do not state a germination percentage for this lot.

FAQ

Will it grow in ordinary garden soil?

It needs wet or consistently moist soil; dry beds are not suitable.

Should the seed be covered?

No. Sow on the surface, as light helps germination.