Also known as Bulrush · 104 saves
Scirpus
Scirpus, the genus most gardeners know as bulrush. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Scirpus varieties
Species of Scirpus
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Scirpus in Sow
Save the Scirpus you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Scirpus
Whats common across all Scirpus varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Scirpus year
- PlantApril–June100% of varieties
Install plugs or potted specimens into wet or damp soil.
- Spring CleanupMarch and April100% of varieties
Cut back spent foliage and old flowering stems down to the base before spring growth begins.
- DivideApril67% of varieties
Divide crowded rhizomatous clumps in early spring as new shoots appear.
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist or wet, especially during summer dry spells.
- Prune old growth down to the ground in late winter or early spring.
- Keep soil moist or water shallowly flooded 🌱
- Divide every 2-3 years to promote healthy growth
- Plant in full sun for vigorous foliage
Avoid
- Do not shear foliage during the active summer growing period.
- Do not plant in dry, unirrigated garden borders.
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Use chemical fertilizers excessively
What goes wrong with Scirpus
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky honeydew on stems | Spray with insecticidal soap |
| None significant | This plant is generally free from pest problems. | No action is typically required. |
| Root rot | Wilting and discolored roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| None significant | This plant is generally free from disease problems. | No action is typically required. |
Making more Scirpus
Division
- Dig up established clumps in early spring using a sharp spade.
- Divide the thick rhizomes into smaller sections, keeping healthy roots and shoots intact.
- Replant divisions immediately into saturated or consistently moist soil.
- Water deeply to settle roots and keep soil damp until growth resumes.
Rhizome division
- Dig up clumps in early spring
- Cut rhizomes into sections with roots
- Plant sections in moist soil or shallow water
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment
Scirpus questions
How many types of Scirpus are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Scirpus varieties. The most popular — ranked by 104 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Scirpus grow in?
Across its varieties, Scirpus covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Scirpus bloom?
Most Scirpus varieties bloom in summer, mid-summer, spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Scirpus should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.