Marsh Arrow Grass

Triglochin palustris

Physical Characteristics

Triglochin palustris is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June 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 and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from the Arctic south and east to N. Africa, northern Asia. N. America.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Stem Edible Uses: Coffee The white base of the leaf stem can be eaten raw or cooked[172]. An unpleasant odour is produced in the cooking process but the flavour of the stems is sweet[172]. The green parts of the plant should not be eaten since they can contain a toxin. See notes at top of the page. Seed - parched and ground into a powder[172]. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute[172].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The green leaves of plants can contain a toxic cyanogenic glycoside, it is especially present during and just after a drought and is particularly toxic to ruminants[172]. Plants growing in Britain are usually perfectly safe, this is probably due to the climate[76].