Scirpus

This most distinctive species spreads by rhizomes to form a dense colony of bright green, upright, leaf-like stems which are sharply triangular in cross section. Stands of three-square rush often fringe ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the U.S. The inconspicuous flowers appear in early summer, with the seeds ripening in late summer. Threesquare bulrush rhizomes, stems, and seeds are an important food for waterfowl, marsh and shore birds, and other wildlife species. Stands serve as a primary wintering ground for snow geese, and as cover and nesting habitat for many other bird and mammal species. As a human food, it is s said that the rhizomes and young stems can be eaten raw or cooked and are rich in starch. Pollen can be added to flour when making bread, cakes, and so on, for extra protein. Seed has a nutty flavor when cooked and may be ground to make a mush. The dried, mature stems have been used for caning chairs, and for making baskets, shopping bags and hats. Succeeds in almost any moist to wet soil, or in shallow water, in full sun or part shade. Will grow in fresh and brackish tidal and nontidal marshes, in acid to alkaline soil and in clay to sandy soil.

An upright, grass-like plant with slender, glossy leaves. The fluffy seed clusters in fall add ornamental interest. The seeds are a food source for birds. Will grow in wet soil or shallow water, but does well also in moist, well-drained soil.

Stems are sharply triangular in cross-section. The dark green leaves are arranged symmetrically in three rows corresponding to the sides of the stem. Spreads to form a colony. A valuable food and cover plant for wetland wildlife.

The green, leafless stems of this species look somewhat like very tall, slender onion leaves. Spreads to from a colony. An interesting ornamental for shallow water.