Decumbent Spikerush: A California Native for Wetland Gardens
If you’re passionate about native plants and have a wet spot in your garden that’s been giving you trouble, let me introduce you to decumbent spikerush (Eleocharis decumbens). This unassuming little California native might not win any beauty contests, but it’s a hardworking perennial that deserves a spot in the right garden setting.
What Is Decumbent Spikerush?
Decumbent spikerush is a native sedge that belongs to the grass-like plant family. Don’t let the grass-like description fool you though – this is actually a member of the sedge family (Cyperaceae), not a true grass. It’s a perennial plant that produces thin, inconspicuous foliage and small spike-like flower heads that give it its common name.
You might also encounter this plant listed under its botanical synonym, Eleocharis montevidensis var. decumbens, but Eleocharis decumbens is the accepted name.
Where Does It Come From?
This California native has a pretty limited range – you’ll find it naturally growing in wetland areas throughout the Golden State. As a plant that’s native to the lower 48 states but restricted to California, it represents an important part of the state’s unique wetland ecosystem.
Important Conservation Note
Before we dive into growing tips, here’s something crucial to know: decumbent spikerush has a Global Conservation Status of S3?, which means its conservation status is somewhat uncertain but potentially of concern. If you’re interested in growing this plant, please make sure you source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries rather than collecting it from the wild. This helps protect wild populations while still allowing you to enjoy this native beauty in your garden.
Why Grow Decumbent Spikerush?
Let’s be honest – decumbent spikerush isn’t going to be the showstopper in your garden. But here’s why you might want to consider it:
- Native habitat restoration: Perfect for recreating California’s natural wetland ecosystems
- Problem-solving plant: Thrives in those soggy areas where other plants struggle
- Low maintenance: Once established, it pretty much takes care of itself
- Ecological value: Supports local wildlife as part of native plant communities
Where Does It Fit in Your Garden?
Decumbent spikerush isn’t for every garden – it has very specific needs. This plant is ideal for:
- Wetland restoration projects
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Bog gardens and water features
- Naturalistic pond edges
- Native plant gardens with consistent moisture
If you’re creating a formal flower border or drought-tolerant landscape, this probably isn’t your plant. But if you’re working on habitat restoration or have a naturally wet area you want to plant with natives, it could be perfect.
Growing Conditions
Think wet feet when it comes to decumbent spikerush. This plant needs:
- Soil: Wet to saturated soils – it can even handle standing water
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Climate: Best suited for USDA zones 8-10, matching California’s climate
- Moisture: Consistent wetness is non-negotiable
Planting and Care Tips
Growing decumbent spikerush successfully is all about getting the conditions right:
- Location first: Choose the wettest spot in your garden – this plant can’t have too much water
- Soil prep: If your soil drains well, this isn’t the right plant unless you’re willing to constantly irrigate
- Planting: Plant in spring when soil is naturally moist
- Maintenance: Very low maintenance once established – just ensure it never dries out
Wildlife and Pollinator Value
While decumbent spikerush isn’t a major pollinator magnet (it’s wind-pollinated like most sedges), it does provide habitat value as part of wetland plant communities. It can offer cover for small wildlife and contributes to the overall ecosystem health of wetland areas.
The Bottom Line
Decumbent spikerush is definitely a specialist plant for specialist gardens. If you have a wet area that needs native plants, are working on habitat restoration, or want to create an authentic California wetland garden, this little sedge could be exactly what you need. Just remember to source it responsibly and make sure you can provide the consistently wet conditions it requires.
Not the right fit for your garden? Consider other California native sedges or wetland plants that might better match your site conditions and conservation goals.
