Juncus patens | California Gray Rush
DESCRIPTION
Juncus patens is a hardy grass-like plant native to North America, known for its slender, gray-green arching stems that form dense clumps. The plant's fine, narrow leaves contribute to its graceful, tufted shape, making it an excellent choice for wetland gardens, water features, and rain gardens. Its upright, mound-like form adds structure to landscape designs, especially in areas with moist or marshy conditions.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, Juncus patens produces small, brownish or greenish flowers, though the flowers are not the primary feature of this plant. Instead, its ornamental value lies in its foliage and shape, which provide year-round interest. Thriving in wet soils, it is commonly found along streambanks and in marshes, where it helps with erosion control and supports local wildlife. Its adaptability to standing water and variable moisture levels makes it a reliable choice for stabilizing the edges of ponds or streams.
DESCRIPTION
Juncus patens is a hardy grass-like plant native to North America, known for its slender, gray-green arching stems that form dense clumps. The plant's fine, narrow leaves contribute to its graceful, tufted shape, making it an excellent choice for wetland gardens, water features, and rain gardens. Its upright, mound-like form adds structure to landscape designs, especially in areas with moist or marshy conditions.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, Juncus patens produces small, brownish or greenish flowers, though the flowers are not the primary feature of this plant. Instead, its ornamental value lies in its foliage and shape, which provide year-round interest. Thriving in wet soils, it is commonly found along streambanks and in marshes, where it helps with erosion control and supports local wildlife. Its adaptability to standing water and variable moisture levels makes it a reliable choice for stabilizing the edges of ponds or streams.
DESCRIPTION
Juncus patens is a hardy grass-like plant native to North America, known for its slender, gray-green arching stems that form dense clumps. The plant's fine, narrow leaves contribute to its graceful, tufted shape, making it an excellent choice for wetland gardens, water features, and rain gardens. Its upright, mound-like form adds structure to landscape designs, especially in areas with moist or marshy conditions.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, Juncus patens produces small, brownish or greenish flowers, though the flowers are not the primary feature of this plant. Instead, its ornamental value lies in its foliage and shape, which provide year-round interest. Thriving in wet soils, it is commonly found along streambanks and in marshes, where it helps with erosion control and supports local wildlife. Its adaptability to standing water and variable moisture levels makes it a reliable choice for stabilizing the edges of ponds or streams.
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Family: Juncaceae
Height: 12 to 36 inches
Width: 12 to 36 inches
Foliage color: Gray-green to gray-blue, upright, needle-like stems
Flower color: Brownish-green, tassel-like clusters
Bloom time: Spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate; tolerates both wet conditions and drought once established
Maintenance: Low; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife attractors: Provides nesting material for birds
