Juncus scheuchzerioides facts for kids

Juncus scheuchzerioides is a type of plant known as a rush. People often call it the short rush or the greater rush. This plant grows all around the Antarctic region. You can find it on many islands near the Southern Ocean, which is the ocean around Antarctica.

What Does the Short Rush Look Like?

The short rush is a plant that grows in thick clumps. It stands upright and is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. Its color can be dark green, bright green, or even reddish-green.

This rush can be different sizes. It usually grows from 20 mm (about 1 inch) to 300 mm (about 1 foot) tall. Its stems are thin, about 0.2 to 0.5 mm thick, and can be 20–200 mm long. They have many branches right from the bottom. The plant also has roots that spread out along the ground.

The short rush has many leaves. Some grow from the base of the plant, and others grow along the stems. Its flowers grow in a tight cluster, usually with 2 to 8 flowers in one head. Each flower is about 4 mm long. The plant usually blooms from December to April. It then produces fruit from February to July.

Where Does the Short Rush Live?

This rush is found on several islands in the Southern Ocean. These include the Antipodes, Auckland, and Campbell Islands. It also grows on Macquarie Island, South Georgia, and the Falkland, Kerguelen, Crozet, and Prince Edward Islands. You can also find it in southern South America.

The short rush usually lives in or near running water. It can form large groups in these wet places. It also likes wet, peaty ground. You can find it from sea level up to 300 m (about 980 feet) above sea level.