Falcate Rush

(Juncus falcatus)

Falcate Rush (Juncus falcatus)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 22" - 92"
High Temp. 62°F - 76°F
Low Temp. 26°F - 41°F

Summary

Juncus falcatus, commonly known as Falcate Rush, Sickle-Leaved Rush, or Sickle-Leaf Rush, is a perennial herb that thrives in wetland habitats such as marshes, wet meadows, and along stream banks. It is native to the West Coast of North America, including the Aleutian Islands. This rush typically reaches a height of 1.5-3 feet (0.46-0.9 meters) and has a clumping growth habit with narrow, arching leaves that give it a distinctive, grass-like appearance.

Falcate Rush is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in rain gardens, wetland restoration projects, and as a natural method for stabilizing stream banks. Its green or brown flowers are inconspicuous, blooming in the summer, and are not the main attraction. Instead, its foliage and form provide texture and interest in water features or boggy areas of the garden. It requires full sun to part shade and prefers slow-draining clay, loam, or sandy soils that retain moisture. While it is not particularly prone to diseases, it can spread aggressively in ideal conditions, so gardeners should be mindful of its growth habit when planting to ensure it does not overtake other plants.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to wetland habitats such as marshes, wet meadows, and stream banks

Other Names

Common Names: Sickle-Leaved Rush, Sickle-Leaf Rush

Scientific Names: Juncus falcatus, Juncus falcatus var. falcatus

GBIF Accepted Name: Juncus falcatus