Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cyperaceae

Genus:

Eleocharis

Species:

Eleocharis melanostachys

USDA Symbol:

ELME3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

40 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug

Bloom Colors:

brown

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

waterfowl, shorebirds

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

wet, nutrient-rich, clay or loam

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

tolerates poor drainage

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

commonly found in wetlands and marshes

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require consistently wet to saturated conditions for germination. Light may improve germination rates.