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Bulbous Woodrush

Luzula bulbosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Bulbous Woodrush (Luzula bulbosa)
Photo: (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states

Wood rush is a clumping grass-like perennial that forms neat tufts of narrow evergreen foliage. It produces small clusters of brownish flowers in late spring and early summer, creating a refined groundcover for shaded areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Bulbous Woodrush takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very uncommon and unfamiliar to most homeowners
  • Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weedy sedges
  • Subtle flowers provide minimal ornamental impact

Wildlife value

This plant is primarily wind-pollinated so offers limited direct pollinator support. The evergreen foliage may provide minor shelter for small wildlife during winter months.

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.

Does Bulbous Woodrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.