Nodding Bulrush (Scirpus pendulus)

from $2.00

Scirpus pendulus, commonly known as Nodding Bulrush, is a native perennial sedge-like plant found in wetlands, marshes, wet meadows, and along streambanks across parts of Illinois and the eastern United States. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist to wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and wetland restorations.

This robust plant typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and features tall, triangular stems and long, grass-like leaves. Its most distinctive feature is the drooping clusters of reddish-brown spikelets that hang from arching branches, giving the plant a graceful, nodding appearance. These bloom from late spring into summer and are followed by seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Scirpus pendulus offers both ornamental structure and ecological value in moist habitats. It supports wetland biodiversity, helps stabilize soil, and provides cover and nesting material for a variety of wildlife. It pairs well with other wetland natives like Blue Flag, Swamp Milkweed, and Soft Rush in rich, wildlife-friendly plantings.

Size:

Scirpus pendulus, commonly known as Nodding Bulrush, is a native perennial sedge-like plant found in wetlands, marshes, wet meadows, and along streambanks across parts of Illinois and the eastern United States. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist to wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and wetland restorations.

This robust plant typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and features tall, triangular stems and long, grass-like leaves. Its most distinctive feature is the drooping clusters of reddish-brown spikelets that hang from arching branches, giving the plant a graceful, nodding appearance. These bloom from late spring into summer and are followed by seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Scirpus pendulus offers both ornamental structure and ecological value in moist habitats. It supports wetland biodiversity, helps stabilize soil, and provides cover and nesting material for a variety of wildlife. It pairs well with other wetland natives like Blue Flag, Swamp Milkweed, and Soft Rush in rich, wildlife-friendly plantings.

Bloom: summer

Habitats: abandoned fields; limestone glades; low areas along rivers and ponds; marshes and seeps; moist depressions in limestone glades; moist meadows in wooded areas; powerline clearances in wooded areas; river-bottom prairies; roadside ditches; sedge meadows; wet dolomite prairies

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: wet to mesic

Plant type (height): sedge (2 to 3.5 feet)

Requirements: full sun to light shade

Soil: soil with organic matter