green bulrush
Scirpus atrovirens
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate or wet soil
Size4 to 5 feet tall3 to 4 feet wide
- Habit
- Grass/grass-like
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Green maturing to brown
- Foliage color
- Dark green
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Green bulrush (Scirpus atrovirens) is a grass-like plant for meadows, rain gardens, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet soil. The dark green leaves are broad, and the stems can reach 5 feet. Round heads of green spikelets turn brown as they mature. Waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds use it for food and cover.
Pairs well with Royal fern, Smooth aster, Wild bergamot, and Black gum.
Native range
North America.