644B-1-Eleocharis-acuta-hab-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Eleocharis acuta

Common Spike-rush

Leafless tufted perennial herb spreading by underground stems. Flowering stems hollow, round in cross section, triangular at tip.

Additional information

  • FamilyCyperaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.3-0.9 m high
  • Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
  • LeavesLeaf sheath at base of stem straight across top with a small point.
  • Flower colourDark brown
  • Flowering timeSeptember to April
  • FlowersTerminal spikelet often wider than stem, narrowly egg-shaped, 5-30 mm x 3-7 mm.
  • Bird attractingHabitat - nesting and/or safety
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsAquatic in swamps, lake margins and along watercourses.
  • Garden useProvides habitat in dams and ponds but will spread readily.
  • Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
  • Conservation statusWidespread within the Shire
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

  • 30 Swamp Gum Swampy Riparian Woodland (EVC 83)
  • 22 Silver-leaf Stringybark Heathy Woodland (EVC 48)
  • 47 Open Water - Reservoirs, lakes, etc (EVC 718)
  • 35 Floodplain Wetland Complex (EVC 172)
  • 34 Manna Gum Floodplain Riparian Woodland (EVC 56)
  • 41 Swamp Paperbark Riparian Thicket (EVC 59)
  • 39 Sedge Wetland Complex (EVC 136)
  • Page 1 of 1