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Hardstem Bulrush (Scirpus acutus)

• Family: Sedge (Cyperaceae)
• Flowering: May-September.
• Field Marks: This bulrush is recognized by its nearly round stems, its cluster of spikelets borne laterally along the stem, and its usually 2-cleft style.
• Habitat: Along rivers.
• Habit: Perennial herb with rather stout rhizomes.
• Stems: Erect, not triangular, smooth, up to 8 feet tall.
• Leaves: Usually reduced to sheaths near base of stem.
• Flowers: Borne in spikelets from the side of the stem near the tip, in short-stalked or long-stalked clusters; each spikelet oblong to cylindric, pointed or rounded at the tip, up to 3/4 inch long, reddish.
• Sepals: 0.
• Petals: 0.
• Stamens: 2-3.
• Pistils: Ovary superior, styles 2-cleft.
• Fruits: Achenes flattened, obovate, not shiny.
• Notes: The achenes are eaten by waterfowl.