Bulrush

Example of the bullrush species Schoenoplectus.

Bulrush or bullrush is the common name for several large wetland grass-like plants, typically in the sedge family (Cyperaceae).

The name is particularly applied to several sedge family genera:

• Cyperus, the genus which includes the plant species likely referred to in the Biblical account of the Ark of bulrushes
• Scirpus a genus commonly known as bulrushes in North America, which in previous circumscriptions has also included species now classified in the genera:
  • Bolboschoenus
  • Schoenoplectus

Outside of the sedge family, the name is used for Typha, a genus in the Typhaceae family. The Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland recommends "bulrush" as a common name for plants in the genus Typha. However, these species are widely known as reed mace" in the United Kingdom.

One particular famous story involving bulrushes is that of the Ark of bulrushes. In this story, it is said that the infant Moses was found in a boat made of bulrushes. Within the context of the story, this is probably paper reed (Cyperus papyrus)

When fish make beds over bulrush, they sweep away the sand exposing bulrush roots. This dense region of roots provides excellent cover for young fish fry.

This page is an index of articles on plant species (or higher taxonomic groups) with the same common name (vernacular name). If an internal link led you here, you may wish to edit the linking article so that it links directly to the intended article.