A Diagnostics Tool for Pond Plants and Algae

Flowering Rush

Butomus umbellatus

Non-Native

USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 28 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
Illustration courtesy of University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Used with permission.

What is Flowering Rush?

Physical Characteristics

Leaves:

  • Grass-like
  • Triangular
  • Flexible
  • Narrow
  • Emergent leaves spiraling towards the tip

Flowers:

  • Umbrella shaped
  • Pink in color
  • Single flowered
  • Located above the leaves
  • 0.75 – 1 inch across
  • 3 small sepals
  • Sepals green in color
  • 6 petals
  • 9 stamen in 2 whorls
  • 20-50 flowers
  • Clustered

Seeds:

  • Many seeds

Stem:

Where Does it Grow?

EDDMapS. 2024. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia – Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at http://www.eddmaps.org/; last accessed January 17, 2024.

Non-Native

Flowering rush can be found as a submersed or emergent plant in marshes and along shorelines. Flowering rush was introduced to North America from Europe and Asia. It is not currently found in Texas.

Pros and Cons of Flowering Rush

This plant is not native to North America, but has naturalized in much of the United States. While it is not illegal to possess this plant in Texas, it should not be introduced into new water bodies and should be treated with herbicide when present.

How to Manage This Plant
Plant Glossary