Hard Stem Bulrush

Scirpus acutus

Physical Characteristics

Scirpus acutus is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in) at a fast rate.The seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

N. America - Canada and southwards.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Pollen Root Seed Shoots Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[62, 161]. Rich in starch, it has been ground into a powder and used with cereal flours in making bread[212]. The roots can be boiled with water and made into a syrup[257]. The roots are usually peeled before being eaten[257]. Pollen[62]. Rich in protein, it can be added to flour when making bread, cakes etc. Seed[62, 257]. Small and fiddly to utilize. White stem bases and tender young shoots - raw or cooked[257]. Harvested in the spring[161], they are crisp and sweet[212]. New shoots form in the autumn and make a welcome snack[212]. The inner portions of the stems can be eaten raw[257].

Medicinal Uses

Haemostatic The stem pith is haemostatic[257]. A poultice of the pith is placed under a dressing in order to stop the wound bleeding[257]. The roots have been chewed as a preventative to thirst[257].

Known Hazards

None known