Spikerush

Eleocharis ochrostachys

Native to:
Australia, Bangladesh, Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Cambodia, Caroline Is., China, Fiji, Guam, Hainan, India, Jawa, Laos, Malaya, Maluku, Marianas, Myanmar, Nansei-shoto, New Guinea, Nicobar Is., Palau, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Is., Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Wallis-Futuna Is.

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cyperaceae
Genus:
Eleocharis
Species:
Eleocharis ochrostachys
USDA Symbol:
ELOC2

Growth Characteristics

Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
50 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
brown

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
waterfowl, shorebirds
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
wet, nutrient-rich, clayey soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (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:
14–60 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best on saturated mud or shallow water. Light may enhance germination.