Illinois Native Plant Guide - Creeping Spike Rush - Pages 76-66

Illinois Native Plant Guide

Creeping Spike Rush (Marsh Spike Rush)
Eleocharis smallii

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Mudflat species. This species needs saturated soil.

Wildlife Value

Achenes are eaten by waterfowl.

Application/Zone

Extensive creeping rhizomes can stabilize upper shoreline zones and streambanks.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• Perennial, spreads by seed where competition is reduced.
• Sow fresh seed on mudflats (under drawdown condition).

Creeping Spike Rush (Marsh Spike Rush)
Eleocharis smallii

Mature Height
12-18 inches

Plant Type
Perennial herb

Indicator Status
Obligate

pH
Not available

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Low

Salt Tolerance
Moderate

Siltation Tolerance
Low

Flowering Color and Time
Brown
June to September

Light Preference
Full sun

Seeding Rate
.02 - .4 lbs/acre

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