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Forked Rush

Juncus dichotomus

Last reviewed: August 2026

Forked Rush (Juncus dichotomus)
Photo: (c) Zihao Wang, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Zihao Wang

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Forked Rush as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

8"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CO, CT and 22 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Great PlainsCross TimbersEdwards PlateauTexas Blackland PrairiesEast Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central PlainsEastern Temperate ForestsPiedmontNortheastern Coastal ZoneMiddle Atlantic Coastal PlainNorthern PiedmontSoutheastern PlainsBlue RidgeRidge and ValleyInterior PlateauInterior River Valleys and HillsMississippi Alluvial PlainMississippi Valley Loess PlainsSouthern Coastal PlainAcadian Plains and HillsAtlantic Coastal Pine Barrens

Forked rush is a compact native sedge that forms neat clumps of thin, upright stems. It produces small clusters of brownish flowers from summer through early fall and thrives in consistently moist conditions.

In an HOA neighborhood

Forked Rush 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.

  • Looks like a wild wetland plant rather than traditional landscaping
  • May appear unkempt to neighbors unfamiliar with native plants
  • High water needs may seem excessive for ornamental use

Wildlife value

This rush provides nectar for bees and beetles during its long blooming period. The seeds offer food for birds, and the dense clumps provide shelter for small wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Forked Rush need?
Forked Rush grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Forked Rush bloom?
Forked Rush blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Forked Rush native?
Forked Rush (Juncus dichotomus) is native to AL, AR, CO, CT and 22 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
Is Forked Rush toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Forked Rush as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Forked Rush attract?
Forked Rush draws bees and beetles.
Is Forked Rush HOA-friendly?
Forked Rush 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Forked Rush? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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