Native Habitat:
Moist meadows, streambanks, and wet open areas in western North America, including the Willamette Valley. Prefers consistently damp, well-drained to seasonally wet soils.
 
Bloom Time:
June – August
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial rush, 2–4 feet tall, with slender, erect stems forming dense clumps. Produces small, brownish-green flowers along the upper stems.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in moist to wet soils, including loam, clay, or sandy substrates. Tolerates seasonal flooding.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Camassia leichtlinii, Tolmiea menziesii, Carex obnupta, Festuca roemeri, Achillea millefolium.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Adds vertical texture and structural interest to urban rain gardens, riparian buffers, pond edges, and wetland-inspired plantings. Works well in layered native plantings and naturalized landscapes, particularly in areas with seasonal moisture.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Provides shelter and nesting habitat for small birds and insects. Flowers attract native bees and other small pollinators. Dense clumps support amphibians and beneficial invertebrates.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for weaving and cordage; valued ornamentally for wetland and riparian habitat plantings.