Sharp Rush, Spiny rush, Leopold's rush

Juncus acutus

Physical Characteristics

Juncus acutus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower in June. 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 and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Southern Europe, including Britain, south and east from France to N. Africa and Macronesia.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, there is a report that one member of this genus is possibly toxic to mammals[76]..