Flat-stem Spikerush

Eleocharis compressa

The Flat-stem Spikerush is a tall, grass-like plant that grows in wet areas. It has flat stems and tiny flowers that can be seen in the summer, making it a special part of its habitat.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Flat-stem Spikerush has bright green, distinctly flattened stems that grow in dense, upright clumps. Its tiny, inconspicuous flowers are packed into a single, brown, spiky cluster at the very tip of each stem, making it look almost like a miniature club.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderPoalesFamilyCyperaceaeGenusEleocharis

Flat-stem Spikerush

Interesting facts

Animals like muskrats snack on its hidden underground parts!

Its stems are so flat, they feel like tiny ribbons between your fingers!

Spikerushes are part of the sedge family, not true grasses!

This plant helps filter water in its marshy homes!

Special abilities

Flat-stem Spikerush can thrive in waterlogged soil and shallow water, thanks to roots that tolerate low oxygen.

Flat-stem Spikerush has underground stems called rhizomes that help it spread and form new plants, creating dense mats.

Flat-stem Spikerush performs most of its photosynthesis in its unique flat stems, capturing sunlight efficiently.

Measurements & details

Height: 10-60 cm
Spread: 15-30 cm
Flower Size: 0.3-1 cm
Bloom Season: Summer
Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

eats

Mallard

Anas platyrhynchos

consumes its seeds

eats

Muskrat

Ondatra zibethicus

feeds on its underground rhizomes

shelters

Northern Leopard Frog

Rana pipiens

hides among its dense stems

shelters

Eastern Newt

Notophthalmus viridescens

uses its thick stands for cover

Traits

Flowering

Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.

Grass-Like

Grass-like plants are herbaceous plants that visually resemble true grasses, typically having long, narrow leaves.

Summer Blooming

Summer blooming plants produce their flowers during the summer season, often providing vibrant color when many other plants have finished.

Pollinator Magnet

Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.

Wetland

This habitat trait identifies species found in wetlands, which are areas of land saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, including marshes, swamps, and bogs.