Sparganium americanum (American Bur-Reed)

Sparganium americanum (American Bur-Reed) is an emergent, grass-like, aquatic perennial with stiffly upright, narrow, slightly channeled leaves to 36 in. long (90 cm). In summer to early fall, zig-zag stalks appear in the leaf axils. They boast large ball-shaped flower clusters, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), packed with tiny green flowers becoming brown and bur-like later. The seed-like fruit are bent and grow within the bur-like heads of the female flower cluster. The seeds are eaten by waterfowl and marsh birds, and muskrats feed on the entire plant. Native to North America, American Bur-Reed occurs naturally in shallow water, muddy shores, swamps and ponds. Partly in and partly out of the water, it often forms dense stands along the edges of shallow lakes and ponds. Spreading rapidly through its underground root systems, it has the ability to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from wetlands. This moisture-loving plant is an excellent choice for a water garden, wetland garden or near ponds and streams.

• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to light shade in continually moist to wet, loamy, sandy or clay soils. Will grow in low marsh and shallow water, surviving in water up to 12 in. deep (30 cm).
• A good choice for plantings in bog gardens, rain gardens or near ponds and streams.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant.
• Native to North America.