Sparganium eurycarpum
Giant Bur-reed
General
A perennial aquatic plant native to North America, typically growing in wetland habitats. It features stout, erect stems that can reach heights of 3-6 feet. The plant produces spherical flower heads and distinctive fruiting clusters that resemble burrs, adding to its unique appearance in marshes, ponds, and shallow waters.
Plant Description
Characterized by its tall, stout stems topped with spherical flower heads that bloom in mid to late summer. The flower heads are followed by distinctive fruiting clusters that are rounded and spiky, resembling burrs, adding to their ornamental value in wetland environments.
Height (ft)
3-6'
Soil moisture
Moist to wet soil, submerged
Soil types
Mud, clay or sandy substrates
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Full sun to part shade
Bloom color
Green/Brown
Bloom period
Mid to late summer
Drought tolerance
Intolerant
Salinity tolerance
Moderately tolerant of brackish water
Range
Ranging from eastern Canada (Ontario, Quebec) southward through the northeastern and midwestern United States, including states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, has been used by the Klamath, Iroquois and Okanagan by eating the roots and infusing the whole plant for chills and used as hay for cattle.