Saw Grass (Cladium mariscus)

Family: Cyperaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Cladium mariscus is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The young shoots may be edible. — The young shoots may be edible.

Habitat & North American Range

Reed swamps and fens, often forming dense pure stands, usually on neutral or alkaline soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)