American Bulrush

Scirpus americanus

Physical Characteristics

Scirpus americanus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

S. W. Europe, including Britain, south and east from the Netherlands to Belgium, Germany and Italy.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Pollen Root Seed Stem Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[172, 257]. Rich in starch. Stem. Peeled and eaten raw or cooked[172]. Stem base - raw or cooked[172]. Pollen[172]. Rich in protein, it can be added to flour when making bread, cakes etc. Seed - cooked. A nutty flavour[172]. The seed can be ground into a powder, mixed with water, boiled and eaten as a mush[257]. The seed is rather small and fiddly to harvest and utilize.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known