Cyperus-like Sedge vs Panicled Bulrush - TreeTime.ca

Cyperus-like Sedge vs Panicled Bulrush

Carex pseudocyperus

Scirpus microcarpus

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Cyperus-like Sedge
Panicled Bulrush

Cyperus-like Sedge is a native perennial sedge found in wetlands, marshes, swamps, and along shorelines. Classified as an obligate wetland species, it grows in dense clumps that thrive in saturated soils, helping stabilize wet ground and protect shorelines. These colonies also provide cover for wildlife, while the seeds may be eaten by waterfowl and other birds. It is well-suited to wetland restoration, waterside and riparian zone plantings, and naturalization projects.
Its ornamental appeal comes from the contrast between the upright male floral spikes at the top of the stems and the long, drooping female floral spikes that hang below. These seed spikes resemble those of Cyperus species, giving the plant its common name and making it an attractive addition to naturalized plantings.

Panicled Bulrush is a native perennial sedge that thrives in saturated soils and shallow water. Spreading readily by rhizomes, it quickly forms tall clumps that make it especially valuable for riparian plantings, erosion control, ecological restoration, and naturalization projects.
Its many-branched clusters of small flower heads give the plant its name and add texture to wetland landscapes. In addition to stabilizing shorelines and improving habitat quality, Panicled Bulrush provides food and cover for waterfowl, small mammals, and other wildlife. A cool-season grower, it is most active in spring and fall, slowing or going dormant during the heat of summer.

Cyperus-like Sedge Quick Facts

Panicled Bulrush Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 0.8 m (2.5 ft)
Height: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: wet
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Growth form: clump-forming
Growth form: upright, clump-forming
Spreading: rhizomes - low, seed - low
Spreading: rhizomes - high


Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, PE
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Other Names: cyperus sedge, cypresslike sedge, false bristly sedge
Other Names: red-sheathed bulrush, red-tinged bulrush, small-flowered bulrush, small-fruited bulrush