Squarestem Spikerush
Eleocharis quadrangulata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 25 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Squarestem spikerush is a native wetland grass that forms neat clumps of slender, upright stems. It produces small, inconspicuous flower clusters from late spring through fall and thrives in consistently moist to wet soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Squarestem Spikerush 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
- Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weeds
- High water needs conflict with standard irrigation systems
Wildlife value
This plant provides habitat for wetland birds and serves as a host plant for some butterfly and moth larvae. The seeds attract various waterfowl and small birds.
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 Squarestem Spikerush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.