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 4.0Juncus

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.