Eleocharis sphacelata
Tall Spike-rush
Robust leafless tufted perennial herb with thick woody underground stems. Flowering stems stout and ribbed to 12mm wide with internal partitions.
Additional information
- FamilyCyperaceae
- StoreyMiddle storey
- Size0.5-2 m high, to 5 m in deep water
- Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
- LeavesSheath has rounded top margin.
- Flower colourLight green to light brown
- Flowering timeNovember to February
- FlowersTerminal spikelet, cylindrical and tapering, 3-5 cm x 8-9 mm, narrower than stem.
- Bird attractingHabitat - nesting and/or safety
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatYes
- Growing conditionsAquatic in still or slow-moving water to 5 m deep. Full sun, semi-shade.
- Garden useBird and fish habitat in dams but may become invasive. Too vigorous for small water bodies.
- Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
- Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
- Aboriginal Use Weaving - stems, whole for mat making, split for bags.
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1 Marilyn Bull ©; 2 Russell Best, NatureShare ©
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