Flat-stem spike-rush
Also known as: flat-stem spike-sedge, compressed spikerush
Eleocharis compressa Sulliv.
Images
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Morphology
- Culm
- Erect, slender, 4 to 12 inches tall, with fine ridges (striate). The stem is flattened or "compressed" below the spikelet, i.e. it is conspicuously two-sided.
- Leaves
- Bladeless sheaths at the base.
- Inflorescence
- Spikelets, solitary, terminal.
- Spikelet
- Oblong or ovoid, up to .5 inch long, thicker than culm, many-flowered; scales ovate-lanceolate, golden-brown to reddish-brown with light to whitish margins; tip of scale long-pointed, whitish, often 2-cleft.
Ecology
- Habitat
- Low wet areas, marshes, sandy flood plains, woodland openings, and limestone glades; wet soils.
- Distribution
- Throughout except southwest corner of Kansas.
Additional Notes
Comments
Flat-stem spike-rush grows in mats.
Special Notes: Long-stem spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris) occurs in similar habitats but can grow to 4 feet tall.
Quick Facts
- Plant Type
- Sedge
- Family
- Cyperaceae - Sedge Family
- Life Span
- Perennial
- Height
- 4 to 12 inches
- Last Updated
- 2007-04-03
Flowering Period
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
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Dec
Blooms: June, July, August