Etymology: Schoenoplectus: Greek a 'rush leek' ' plecto for "plaited, twisted" schoenos for "rush or reed"
Plants: erect, perennial, to 5' tall, semi-aquatic, emergent sedge; stems triangular; firm rhizomes
Leaves: merely short sheaths at stem base
Flowers: inflorescence tight clustered spikelet from side of bract at stem top, spikelet of sharp-pointed red-brown scales
Fruits: nutlet, with 2 bristles, stubby beak
Habitat: wet; marshes shores in water 2'-3' deep

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5 USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin