Origin:
Native to the western United States, where it is found from southern California into southern Canada.
Biology:
A perennial which grows rapidly in damp locations, quickly forming large, extensive clumps that may cover wide areas. It is found along banks of canals or rivers, swampy areas, and even in orchards or poorly drained locations. Foliage may die back in colder climates, with re-growth in the spring. Reproduction is from seeds, and large numbers of seeds are produced by the large seed heads, from late summer into fall.
Identification:
Like other rushes, this is a grass-like plant with long, thin stems and no leaves. Stems are cylindrical, grow in large numbers from the roots, and may grow to 5 feet tall. Flower clusters appear on the sides of the stems at the upper ends, but well below the tips of the stems. The clusters are large and loose, and have a soft feel to them. They are composed of many individual flowers and may be up to 4 inches across. The individual flowers are green and brown and only around 1/8 inch across, and they are elongate and pointed.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Perennial plants that thrive in wet soils. Re-growth from seeds or from the roots, and roots are extensively branched and strong, making physical removal difficult.
