Schoenoplectus lacustris
bass
An evergreen perennial rush, to a height of up to 2m, with round, solid green stems and a very vigorous root system. Brown to green flowers, in loose bunches appear from the tops or sides of the stems throughout summer
Other common names
bastclub-rush
see morecommon bulrush
common club-rush
frail rush
lake club-rush
mat rush
pool rush
spurt grass
bulrush
Moses in the bulrushes
Synonyms
Scirpus lacustris
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green Brown | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Tufted
- Genus
Schoenoplectus are moisture-loving, rhizomatous evergreen perennials with grass-like foliage and insignificant brown flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Mediterranean, to Mongolia, S. Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile wet soil, or in water up to 30cm (12in) deep, in full sun. Avoid planting in lined ponds, where the roots can pierce the liner. This bullrush is vigorous plant and best planted in large, natural/clay puddled wildlife ponds where it can spread. Alternatively, plant in containers of heavy loam. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division. Root sections of rhizome from mid-spring to midsummer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Trim back regularly to restrict spread
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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