Hard Rush, European meadow rush

Juncus inflexus

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Basic Information

Family: Juncaceae

Genus: juncus

Plant ID (slug): juncus-inflexus

Numeric ID: 21731

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Juncus inflexus is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to N. Africa, the Himalayas and Monglia.

Habitats

Meadow; Pond; Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The plant is reported to be toxic to mammals[240]. It causes irritation of the stomach and diarrhoea, followed by nervousness and progressive blindness; the animal may die of cerebral haemorrhage, preceded by convulsions[240].