Broadfruit Bur-reed
Sparganium eurycarpum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Sparganium eurycarpum is a native aquatic forb found in wetlands across most US states. This bur-reed blooms June through August and provides important habitat for bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Broadfruit Bur-reed as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Broadfruit bur-reed is a tall aquatic perennial that produces distinctive spherical flower clusters in summer and requires consistently wet or waterlogged soil to thrive. This plant is best suited for rain gardens, pond edges, or constructed wetland areas.
Growing Broadfruit Bur-reed
Grow Broadfruit Bur-reed in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Broadfruit Bur-reed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires constantly wet conditions unsuitable for typical landscapes
- Wild, unkempt appearance inappropriate for maintained areas
- Spiky seed heads can appear messy
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and beetles, while the seeds provide food for waterfowl and marsh birds. Dense stands offer nesting habitat for red-winged blackbirds and other wetland species.
Common questions
- Where does Sparganium eurycarpum naturally grow?
- Broadfruit Bur-reed is native to most US states from coast to coast, including the western states like California and Washington, throughout the Great Plains and Midwest, and across the northeastern states.
- What growing conditions does Broadfruit Bur-reed need?
- This aquatic plant requires high water conditions and full sun exposure. It naturally grows in marshes, pond edges, and other wetland habitats.
- When does Sparganium eurycarpum bloom?
- Broadfruit Bur-reed produces flowers during the summer months of June, July, and August.
- What pollinators visit Broadfruit Bur-reed?
- The flowers attract bees and beetles, which help pollinate this native wetland plant.
- Is Broadfruit Bur-reed toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Broadfruit Bur-reed as toxic to livestock.
- Is Broadfruit Bur-reed HOA-friendly?
- Broadfruit 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 Broadfruit Bur-reed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz