Pickerel Rush

Lawn & Garden

Pickerel rush is a type of tall flower that forms dense clumps quickly. Native to North America, this plant is grown worldwide for its decorative effect and comes in various color variations.

The pickerel rush has spearhead-shaped leaves that are shiny olive green and grow on 2- to 3-foot stems. This plant is known for quickly forming dense clumps. Its spike-shaped blue flower clusters bloom from early summer until fall, making it easy to care for.

To grow pickerel rush, plant two or three clusters together in a large container for the best effect. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and requires its roots to be covered with 2 to 12 inches of water. During the winter, move it to the deepest part of the pool.

Pickerel rush can be propagated by division and makes a striking specimen plant for medium to large gardens. However, it can be overbearing in smaller gardens. The flowers last well when cut, and blue to mauve or purple varieties are most common, but white-flowered pickerel rushes are also available.

The scientific name of pickerel rush is Pontederia cordata.

For more information on gardening and great plants to grow, check out:

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FAQ

1. What is Pickerel Rush?

Pickerel Rush, also known as Pontederia cordata, is a water plant that is commonly found in North America. It belongs to the family of Pontederiaceae and is also known by other names such as pickerelweed, heart-leaved pickerelweed, and wampee.

2. What are the physical characteristics of Pickerel Rush?

Pickerel Rush has long and slender stems that can grow up to three feet tall. The leaves are heart-shaped and have a shiny surface. The flowers are blue-purple, and they bloom from June to September. The plant prefers to grow in shallow water, and it can grow in both still and slow-moving water bodies.

3. What are the benefits of Pickerel Rush?

Pickerel Rush serves as an excellent food source for many aquatic animals such as ducks, geese, and fish. It also helps to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, metals, and pollutants. The plant can also be used for phytoremediation of contaminated water bodies.

4. How can Pickerel Rush be grown?

Pickerel Rush can be grown from seeds or by dividing the roots of an existing plant. It prefers to grow in shallow water with a depth of 6-18 inches and needs full sunlight to thrive. The plant can be grown in ponds, lakes, and even in containers.

5. How can Pickerel Rush be used in landscaping?

Pickerel Rush can be used in landscaping to create a natural look in water gardens, ponds, and wetlands. The plant can also be used to control soil erosion in wet areas. It can be planted with other aquatic plants to create a diverse ecosystem that attracts various wildlife.

6. Is Pickerel Rush invasive?

Pickerel Rush is not considered invasive, but it can spread rapidly in the right conditions. It is recommended to plant the species in a contained area, so it does not take over other aquatic plants.

7. How can Pickerel Rush be maintained?

Pickerel Rush is a low maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It should be fertilized once a year with a slow-release fertilizer, and any dead leaves or flowers should be removed. The plant should also be divided every three to four years to prevent overgrowth.

8. Are there any hazards associated with Pickerel Rush?

Pickerel Rush does not have any significant hazards associated with it. However, the plant can be toxic if ingested by humans or animals in large quantities. It is recommended to keep the plant away from children and pets.