Bur-Reed, American bur-reed

Sparganium americanum

Physical Characteristics

Sparganium americanum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from June to August. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia and Ontario to Iowa, South Carolina and Oklahoma.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Stem Edible Uses: Root - cooked[106]. Stem base - cooked[106].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known