Illinois Native Plant Guide

Torrey’s Rush
Juncus torreyi

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Prefers moist to saturated soil. Species tolerates up to 2 inches of inundation for short durations.

Wildlife Value

Provides food for muskrat, marsh birds, and waterfowl. Also provides spawning ground for bluegill and other fish species.

Application/Zone

Rhizomatous root system stabilizes upper shoreline zones and vegetated swales.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• Appears to establish from seed naturally and is becoming more available from vendors.
• Fall seed or cold moist stratify.
• Because of a slow rate of spread, transplant on 0.5-1.5 foot centers once established.
• Spreads more quickly by rhizome.

Torrey’s Rush
Juncus torreyi

Mature Height
Up to 3 feet

Plant Type
Perennial herb

Indicator Status
Facultative Wet

pH
Not available

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Moderate

Salt Tolerance
Low

Siltation Tolerance
Moderate

Flowering Color and Time
Green to brown
July to October

Light Preference
Partial to full sun

Seeding Rate
.006 - .125 lbs/acre

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