949B-3-Juncus-filicaulis-hab-2-Michael-Mulvaney.jpg

Juncus filicaulis

Thread Rush

Densely tufted perennial rush spreading from short underground stems. Erect dull green to bluish-green stems to 1mm diam. with strongly raised, spaced ridges. Pith white, continuous or with small air spaces.

Additional information

  • FamilyJuncaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size15-45 cm x 30-50 cm
  • Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
  • LeavesLeaves reduced to a basal sheath to 7 cm long, pale to medium brown to pinkish-brown towards the base.
  • Flower colourStraw-coloured
  • Flowering timeNovember to January
  • FlowersFlowerhead of one to a few round clusters on short branches to one side of stem, flowers reddish tinged on margins; 3 stamens. Main bract continues above flowers for 10 cm. Capsules reddish-brown, flat-topped, shorter to longer than flowers.
  • Bird attractingSeeds
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsMoist soil in grassy wetlands in lowland areas. Frost tolerant. Full sun.
  • Garden usePlant beside water areas in moist soil. Once established it will tolerate drying out for periods.
  • Commercially availableNo information available
  • Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites.
  • Related speciesVery similar to Juncus subsecundus with which it can hybridise. It can be distinguished by the narrow, wiry stems which have an almost continuous cobwebby pith and flowers which are in 1-3 round clustered and strongly red tinged.
Photographer/s: Michael Mulvaney, Canberra Nature Map ©

Plant Communities

  • 30 Swamp Gum Swampy Riparian Woodland (EVC 83)
  • 44 Grassy Wetland Complex (EVC 125)
  • Page 1 of 1