Watergrass: A Humble Sedge for Wet Gardens
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance grass-like plant that thrives in consistently moist conditions, watergrass (Bulbostylis barbata) might catch your attention. This unassuming little sedge has quietly made itself at home across the southern United States, though it’s not originally from around here.
What Exactly Is Watergrass?
Watergrass goes by the botanical name Bulbostylis barbata, though you might also see it listed under older names like Scirpus barbatus or Stenophyllus barbatus in some references. Don’t let the common name fool you – this isn’t actually a true grass at all, but rather a sedge in the Cyperaceae family.
This annual plant has a fine, hair-like appearance that gives it a delicate, almost wispy look in the landscape. While it won’t win any beauty contests, watergrass has a subtle charm that works well in naturalized settings.
Where You’ll Find Watergrass Growing
Originally hailing from tropical regions of Africa and Asia, watergrass has established populations across much of the southeastern United States. You can find it growing wild in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
As a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild, watergrass falls into that category of plants that have naturalized in our landscapes. It’s not considered invasive or harmful, but it’s worth noting that it’s not part of our native ecosystem either.
Growing Conditions and Hardiness
Watergrass is quite particular about its moisture needs – it loves wet feet! This sedge thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can even tolerate seasonal flooding. You’ll have the best luck growing it in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11.
When it comes to light requirements, watergrass is fairly adaptable, doing well in full sun to partial shade conditions. Its wetland status varies by region:
- In coastal areas (Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain and Eastern Mountains): Can grow in both wetlands and upland areas
- In western regions: Prefers non-wetland areas but may occasionally pop up in wetlands
Is Watergrass Right for Your Garden?
Here’s the thing about watergrass – it’s not going to be the star of your garden show. As an annual with modest ornamental appeal, it’s more of a supporting player. However, it could work well if you’re creating:
- Naturalized wet areas or bog gardens
- Pond or water feature margins
- Wildlife habitat areas where you want low-maintenance ground cover
- Areas with consistently moist soil where other plants struggle
Planting and Care Tips
If you decide to try watergrass, the good news is that it’s pretty low-maintenance once you get the conditions right:
- Plant in consistently moist to wet soil – this is non-negotiable
- Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade
- Since it’s an annual, expect it to complete its life cycle in one growing season
- It readily self-seeds, so you may see it return in subsequent years
- Minimal fertilization needed – it’s adapted to lean, wet soils
Consider Native Alternatives
While watergrass isn’t problematic, you might want to consider native sedges that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems. Look into native Carex species (true sedges) or Eleocharis species (spike rushes) that are indigenous to your region. These natives will offer comparable aesthetic appeal while providing better wildlife habitat and fitting naturally into your local ecosystem.
The Bottom Line
Watergrass is one of those plants that fills a specific niche – if you need something that can handle consistently wet conditions and you’re not too fussy about showy blooms, it might work for you. Just remember that as a non-native annual, it’s more of a utilitarian choice than a garden showstopper. For most gardeners, exploring native wetland plants first will give you better long-term results and environmental benefits.
