Great Bulrush
Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
36"–96" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Great bulrush is a tall, wetland sedge that forms dense clumps of upright green stems topped with brown flower clusters in summer. This native plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can reach up to 8 feet tall in ideal conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Great Bulrush 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 tall and wild appearance inappropriate for formal landscapes
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may create drainage concerns
- Can spread aggressively in suitable conditions
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for waterfowl and songbirds, while the dense growth offers nesting sites and cover for wildlife. The flowers attract various insects during the summer blooming period.
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 Great Bulrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.