Schoenoplectus
acutus var. acutus
Synonyms
Scirpus acutus var. acutus, Scirpus lacustris (4)
Common name
hardstem bulrush
Throughout western North America (4)
Climate,
elevation
Wetlands, low to mid elevations (6).
Local
occurrence (where, how common)
Locally
abundant in perennially wet areas (3).
Marshes,
muddy shores, shallow water (fresh and brackish) at low to mid elevations (3,
6).
Plant
strategy
Germinates and
establishes best in moist bare soil.
Wetland obligate and dominant species in wetland environments (2).
Associated
species
Sedges, rushes, cattails.
May be
collected as:
Seed, rhizomes
(1).
Seeds
mature in late August through September.
Because they are easily dispersed by wind, it is important to collect
seeds close to time of maturity.
Seeds need to
be cleaned and separated from the panicle (1).
Seed germination
Germination rate
increases with cold stratification of 2ºC for 30-75 days. Prewashing with 10% acid solution prior to a
75 day cold stratification has also been tried (1).
Plants can be
propagated with either seeds or rhizomes (5).
Seeds require light for germination.
Press in lightly to assure good soil contact, but do not cover the
seed. Soil should be kept moist until
plants are transplanted. Germination
should begin within 7-10 days (1).
Fine to medium
textured soil (4).
Installation form (form, potential for successful outcomes,
cost)
Rhizomes (most
common), seedlings, or direct seed.
Care requirements
after installed (water weekly, water once etc.)
Soil must be kept
moist. It is suggested to plant only in
wetlands. If wetland is seasonally wet,
and plants are small at time of installment, monitor soil moisture and water as
needed.
Normal
rate of growth or spread; lifespan
Moderate
growth rate; long lifespan (4).
Data compiled by Sacha Johnson (5/19/2004)