American Bur-reed
Sparganium americanum
Last reviewed: June 2026
American Bur-reed is a native aquatic forb found in wetlands across much of the eastern and central United States. This water-loving plant blooms from June through August and attracts bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Bur-reed as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American bur-reed is an aquatic or semi-aquatic native plant that thrives in consistently wet conditions like pond edges, rain gardens, and bog areas. It produces distinctive spherical flower clusters in summer and has long, narrow leaves that emerge from the water or wet soil. This plant requires constant moisture and is best suited for water features or very wet garden areas.
Growing American Bur-reed
Grow American Bur-reed in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Bur-reed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires boggy conditions that look unkempt in typical yards
- Aquatic appearance seems out of place in standard landscaping
- Can spread aggressively in wet areas
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and beetles, while the seeds provide food for waterfowl and marsh birds. The plant also offers habitat for aquatic insects and amphibians in wet garden areas.
Common questions
- Where does American Bur-reed naturally grow?
- American Bur-reed is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, Kansas, and Minnesota.
- When does Sparganium americanum bloom?
- American Bur-reed typically blooms during the summer months of June, July, and August.
- What pollinators visit American Bur-reed?
- American Bur-reed attracts bees and beetles as its primary pollinators during its summer flowering period.
- What growing conditions does American Bur-reed need?
- This aquatic plant requires full sun exposure and high water conditions, making it well-suited for wetlands, pond edges, and marshy areas.
- Is American Bur-reed toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Bur-reed as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Bur-reed HOA-friendly?
- American Bur-reed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Bur-reed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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