Bur-Reed, Giant (Common)
Sparganium eurocarpum
Excellent shoreline habitat for birds and important habitat for fish as fry hang out within the shallow waters within the reeds. A great plant that anchors bottom sediment and filters nutrients. Tall stems with alternating grass-like foliage grows 2-6’, but stays smaller in Minnesota. Green flower heads become brown as seeds mature looking like a spikey mace head and are eaten by a variety of waterfowl. Flower heads and tubers are edible for adventurous humans as well. Natural habitats include marshes, fens, swamps, borders of ponds and slow-moving rivers, and sloughs. Native to Minnesota and most of the northern US. Can be planted in natural waterways.
Size: 2 to6 feet
Zone: 3 -7
Light: Full sun
