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Common spike-rush facts for kids

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Common spike-rush
EleocharisPalustrisAspekt.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Eleocharis
Species:
palustris
Synonyms

Eleocharis palustris, often called the common spike-rush, creeping spike-rush, or marsh spike-rush, is a type of plant that grows in wet places. It's a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years. This plant belongs to the sedge family, called Cyperaceae. You can find it in many parts of the world, including Europe, North Africa, and large areas of Asia and North America.

The common spike-rush can be a bit tricky to tell apart from other similar plants. It also looks quite different depending on where it grows. The scientific name palustris comes from a Latin word meaning "of the marsh." This name perfectly describes where this plant likes to live!

Types of Common Spike-Rush

Scientists have found different types of Eleocharis palustris. These are called subspecies or varieties. They are like different versions of the same plant species. Here are some of the recognized types:

  • Eleocharis palustris subsp. iranica - Found in places like Egypt, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
  • Eleocharis palustris subsp. palustris - This is the most common type, found across most of the plant's range.
  • Eleocharis palustris var. vigens - This variety grows in North America.
  • Eleocharis palustris subsp. waltersii - You can find this type in Europe and on the island of Cyprus.
Eleocharis palustris in Rehovot vernal pool
Eleocharis palustris growing in a vernal pool in Israel.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Junco palustre para niños

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