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.
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