Soft Rush (Juncus effusus)

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

Juncus effusus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to August. 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 and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - raw. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Young shoots - raw.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet pastures, bogs, damp woods etc, usually on acid soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)