Schoenoplectus heterochaetus, commonly known as slender bulrush, is a perennial herb native to a variety of wetland habitats across North America, including marshes, wet meadows, lake margins, and stream banks. It is particularly adapted to areas with fluctuating water levels. In the United States, it is found from California to the Midwest and in scattered locations in Canada. Slender bulrush can grow to over two meters in height, with most of its leaves clustered at the base, giving rise to tall, cylindrical, green stems. The inflorescence, which appears in late summer, is a panicle composed of many cone-shaped spikelets on long, thin branches, which are not particularly showy but have ecological significance.

Slender bulrush is valued for its role in wetland restoration and erosion control due to its extensive root system. It is also used in constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment. This species prefers full sun to part shade and requires wet or consistently moist soil conditions. It is not particular about soil type as long as the area is wet. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread rapidly in ideal conditions, so monitoring is recommended in areas outside its native range. CC BY-SA 4.0