Overview
Juncus effusus is a clump forming bogs in the genus Juncus, part of the Juncaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Juncus effusus grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, wetland areas and pond margins.
About
Juncus effusus, commonly known as common rush, is a clump-forming evergreen plant from the Juncaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This grass-like bog plant thrives in poorly-drained, acidic clay or loam soils and can tolerate both full sun and full shade, making it suitable for various garden aspects and exposures. It is a low-maintenance species with seasonal interest in spring, summer, and winter.
About the genus
Juncus is a genus of monocotyledonous flowering plants, commonly known as rushes. It is the largest genus in the family Juncaceae, containing around 340 species.
Wikipedia contributors, "Juncus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Juncus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Juncus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Full shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Juncus effusus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bogs, Grass Like
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Wetland areas, Pond margins
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Juncus effusus
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Juncus effusus?
Juncus effusus prefers full sun and full shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Juncus effusus need?
Juncus effusus grows best in clay and loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How big does Juncus effusus grow?
Juncus effusus reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Juncus effusus hardy in the UK?
Juncus effusus has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Juncus effusus?
Division, Seed.