Schoenoplectus tabernaemontanii, commonly known as Great Bulrush), is a tall, native perennial sedge found in marshes, lake margins, wetlands, and slow-moving streams throughout Illinois. It thrives in shallow water or saturated soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for wetland restoration and shoreline stabilization.
This species features tall, round, soft stems that can grow 4 to 8 feet high, with few or no leaves along the stem. In early to mid-summer, it produces loose clusters of brownish spikelets near the top of the stem, often appearing off to one side. The stems are spongy and buoyant, allowing the plant to tolerate fluctuating water levels.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani is an essential species for supporting wetland ecosystems. It provides critical habitat and nesting cover for waterfowl, amphibians, and aquatic insects, while its dense root system helps stabilize soil and improve water quality. Great Bulrush is well-suited to native pond edges, bioswales, and constructed wetlands, where its height and graceful form add both ecological function and visual appeal.
Schoenoplectus tabernaemontanii, commonly known as Great Bulrush), is a tall, native perennial sedge found in marshes, lake margins, wetlands, and slow-moving streams throughout Illinois. It thrives in shallow water or saturated soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for wetland restoration and shoreline stabilization.
This species features tall, round, soft stems that can grow 4 to 8 feet high, with few or no leaves along the stem. In early to mid-summer, it produces loose clusters of brownish spikelets near the top of the stem, often appearing off to one side. The stems are spongy and buoyant, allowing the plant to tolerate fluctuating water levels.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani is an essential species for supporting wetland ecosystems. It provides critical habitat and nesting cover for waterfowl, amphibians, and aquatic insects, while its dense root system helps stabilize soil and improve water quality. Great Bulrush is well-suited to native pond edges, bioswales, and constructed wetlands, where its height and graceful form add both ecological function and visual appeal.
Bloom: summer
Habitats: borders of lakes and ponds; ditches along roadsides and roadsides; interdunal depressions; marshes and sandy marshes; swales and sloughs; wet prairies
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet
Plant type (height): sedge (4 to 8 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: mucky; sandy
