JUNCACEAE

J. aridicola (Tussock Rush), J. flavidus (Yellow Rush), J. ingens (Giant Rush), J. radula (Hoary Rush), J. subsecundus (Finger Rush) and J. usitatus (Common Rush).

Annual or perennial erect or spreading tussocky herbs. Tussocks vary in height and width between species; J. ingens 1.5- 5 m high.

In or near water in seasonally wet places. Common on clays and clay loams. Prefers 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.

Collect early Dec-early Mar when seedheads are fully formed and brown, seeds shed in 3-14 days. Dry in paper bag and sieve to extract. Propagate from fresh seed using the Bog method (keep seed tray in water) or by division of rhizomes in clumps 5-10 cm or larger.

Useful for soil erosion control along watercourses and around dams due to fibrous roots. Excellent habitat for small birds, frogs, fish, and crustaceans. Seeds likely eaten by finches, pigeons, and parrots. Some species have ornamental potential for wet areas in gardens.