About
The grey-green, rigid stems of Hard Rush are a distinctive feature of damp ground such as wet grasslands, riversides, dune slacks and marshes. These stems were used for basket-making and weaving in times past, but are thought to be poisonous to livestock. Its brown flowers appear from May to July.
How to identify
Tall, rigid stems without leaves are one of the distinguishing features of Hard Rush. Its flowers are borne in loose clusters.
Where to find it
Common in England and Wales, but rarer elsewhere.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture and development, has resulted in the disappearance of many of the UK's wetlands. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected and managed for the benefit of the plants and animals they hold. We have a vision of a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.