Juncus effusus, commonly known as Soft Rush, is a clump forming wetland perennial valued for its upright cylindrical stems and ability to thrive in saturated soils. It adds vertical texture while also providing important habitat for wildlife.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Wet to moist soils; tolerates standing water
Watering Needs: High; prefers consistently wet conditions
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer
Native Status
Juncus effusus is native to much of North America and is commonly found in marshes, ditches, pond edges, and wet meadows.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides nesting and cover for waterfowl, songbirds, and marsh birds; seeds are eaten by sparrows and finches.
Amphibians
- Offers shelter and breeding cover for frogs and salamanders in wetland habitats.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart for massing in wet conditions or naturalized areas.
Landscape Placement
- Best suited for rain gardens, swales, wetland restorations, and pond edges where water retention is high. Adds vertical contrast to moist or aquatic plantings.
Companion Plants
- Carex stricta (Tussock Sedge) - Complements with clumping habit and similar water needs.
- Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) - Adds red summer blooms and supports hummingbirds in wet soils.
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Provides showy flowers and thrives in moist conditions alongside Juncus.
- Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Offers early yellow blooms in wet meadows and bogs.
- Sagittaria latifolia (Duck Potato) - Adds architectural foliage and supports aquatic pollinators.