Lakeshore Garden Centres Plant Finder

Other Names:  Tule, Hard Stem Bullrush, Schoenoplectus acutus

Description:

A perennial, heavily rhizomatous wetland plant found in ponds and marshes, usually in standing water no deeper than six feet; an excellent water feature accent

Ornamental Features

Hardstem Bullrush has masses of beautiful clusters of tan flowers at the ends of the stems in late spring, which are most effective when planted in groupings. Its grassy leaves remain green in colour throughout the season. The green stems can be quite attractive.

Landscape Attributes

Hardstem Bullrush is an herbaceous annual with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its medium texture blends into the garden, but can always be balanced by a couple of finer or coarser plants for an effective composition.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Suckering

Hardstem Bullrush is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Water Gardens
• Container Planting
• Bog Gardens

Planting & Growing

Hardstem Bullrush will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. Its foliage tends to remain dense right to the ground, not requiring facer plants in front. Although it's not a true annual, this fast-growing plant can be expected to behave as an annual in our climate if left outdoors over the winter, usually needing replacement the following year. As such, gardeners should take into consideration that it will perform differently than it would in its native habitat.

This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers to grow in moist to wet soil, and will even tolerate some standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is native to parts of North America. It can be propagated by multiplication of the underground bulbs.

Hardstem Bullrush is a fine choice for the garden, but it is also a good selection for planting in outdoor pots and containers. With its upright habit of growth, it is best suited for use as a 'thriller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the center of the pot, surrounded by smaller plants and those that spill over the edges. It is even sizeable enough that it can be grown alone in a suitable container. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.