Needle Pipewort

(Eriocaulon setaceum)

Needle Pipewort (Eriocaulon setaceum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 33" - 71"
High Temp. 90°F - 99°F
Low Temp. 57°F - 66°F

Summary

Eriocaulon setaceum, commonly known as Needle Pipewort or Needle Rush, is a perennial herb that is native to wetlands and marshy areas of Tropical and Subtropical Old World. It typically grows at a moderate rate to heights of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). This plant features slender, grass-like leaves and bears spherical, white flower heads that are small and may be considered inconspicuous, blooming in the spring and summer months. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do add a delicate texture to water garden settings.

Needle Pipewort is valued for its ability to thrive in aquatic environments, making it a suitable choice for water gardens, pond margins, and bog gardens. It is also used in traditional medicine in its native region. Cultivation requires conditions that mimic its natural wetland habitat, including full sun to part shade exposure and very slow draining clay or loam soils that are consistently moist or even waterlogged. Gardeners should ensure high or very high amounts of water to maintain the plant’s health. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, stagnant water can lead to root rot if not properly managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetlands and marshy areas of Tropical and Subtropical Old World

Other Names

Common Names: Needle Rush

Scientific Names: Eriocaulon setaceum, Eriocaulon aquaticum, Eriocaulon aquaticum, Eriocaulon bifistulosum, Eriocaulon capillus-naiadis, Eriocaulon cauliferum, Eriocaulon equisetoides, Eriocaulon fluitans, Eriocaulon fluitans, Eriocaulon intermedium

GBIF Accepted Name: Eriocaulon setaceum