Juncus repens, commonly known as Lesser Creeping Rush, is a perennial herb native to freshwater habitats such as wetlands, marshes, and along streambanks in the southeastern United States, Cuba, and Tabasco in Mexico. It is particularly adapted to sandy or silty soils and can grow submerged, which is a unique trait among rushes. Lesser Creeping Rush typically forms dense mats up to 12 inches tall, with creeping rhizomes that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

This plant is valued for its ability to filter water and provide habitat for aquatic wildlife. Its small, greenish-brown flowers are not particularly showy, but they do bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer, adding a subtle charm to the water’s edge. In cultivation, Juncus repens is often used in freshwater aquariums, water gardens, and for naturalizing in riparian zones. It requires consistent moisture or shallow water, and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. While it is not known for being problematic, it can spread vigorously under ideal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0