Plumed Beaksedge

Rhynchospora plumosa

Native to:
Belize, Cuba, Honduras, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cyperaceae
Genus:
Rhynchospora
Species:
Rhynchospora plumosa
USDA Symbol:
RHPL3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
white, brown

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from base after fire. Common in fire-maintained wet pine savannas and flatwoods.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
poor, sandy, well-drained soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
commonly found in pine flatwoods and wet prairies

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–45 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best with consistent moisture and cool temperatures. Light may enhance germination.