Bayonet Grass (Scirpus paludosus)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. This species is very closely rlated to S. maritimus and is included as a form of that species by some botanists. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any wet to moisture retentive ground, pond margins and shallow water in full sun or shade.
Propagation
Seed - sow in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in a pot standing in 3cm of water. Only just cover the seed with soil. The seed usually germinates fairly quickly. Prick out the plants when large enough to handle and plant out in their permanent positions in early summer. Division in spring. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found it best to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in a cold frame, planting them out once they are well established in the summer.
Edible uses
Root - raw or cooked. Rich in starch, they can be dried and ground into a powder then mixed with cereal flours for making bread and other items. Pollen. Rich in protein, it can be mixed with flour and used for making bread etc.
Habitat
Alkaline marshes and on shores.
Native range
N. America - British Columbia to Quebec, south to New Jersey, Oregon and Mexico.