Seaside Arrowgrass vs Softstem Bulrush - TreeTime.ca

Seaside Arrowgrass vs Softstem Bulrush

Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani

Triglochin maritima

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Softstem Bulrush
Seaside Arrowgrass

Softstem Bulrush is a native perennial sedge that forms dense colonies of tall, upright stems. Thriving in saturated soils and shallow water, it spreads vigorously by rhizomes, creating large colonies that stabilize shorelines, control erosion, and strengthen wetland ecosystems.

Dense stands of Softstem Bulrush create shelter and nesting sites for birds, while also supporting aquatic invertebrates and the larvae of numerous insects. It is also an important food source. Many wetland birds, especially ducks, feed on the seeds, while muskrats feed on the foliage and rhizomes. Well-suited for ecological restoration, waterside & riparian plantings, erosion control, and habitat enhancement projects.

Seaside Arrowgrass is a native perennial commonly found in wetlands, salt marshes, and moist meadows. It is especially suitable for difficult growing sites. Its dense root system helps stabilize soil, while also providing food, cover, and habitat for small animals within the wetland community.

Seaside Arrowgrass is suitable for shoreline stabilization, wetland restoration, and naturalization projects.

Softstem Bulrush Quick Facts

Seaside Arrowgrass Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 1b
Height: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Height: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 0.3 m (1.0 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: wet
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: short
Growth form: upright, clump-forming
Growth form: upright, clump-forming
Spreading: rhizomes - high
Spreading: rhizomes-low, seeds-low


Toxicity: can be toxic to humans and livestock
Flowers: very small, pinkish-white, hair like
Bloom time: spring to early summer
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Other Names: american great bulrush, common great bulrush, great bulrush, soft-stemmed bulrush
Other Names: common arrowgrass, common bog arrowgrass, shore arrowgrass