Flowering rush

Butomus umbellatus

  • Where it lives:

  • Non native species

About

Flowering rush is an attractive and striking perennial plant of shallow water and wetland margins.
Its upright, green stems display clusters of bright pink flowers from July to August, and its leaves are long and grass-like. It spreads with creeping rhizomes (underground stems).

How to identify

Flowering rush is a tall, rush-like plant that displays a clustered flower head with cup-shaped flowers; the flowers have three pale pink petals, interspersed with three dark pink sepals. It has long, narrow, green leaves and can form large stands.

Did you know?

Flowering rush is actually not a member of the rush family, but has a family all to itself! It was accidentally introduced into North America, where it has become an aggressively invasive species.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way.