Edge/ Path Rush

COMMON NAME: Path Rush

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Yard Rush

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Juncus tenuis

FAMILY: Juncaceae

COMMUNITY: Edge

STATUS: Native

LIFESPAN: Perennial

HEIGHT: to 24 inches

FLOWERING TIME: Late May to September

FRUITING TIME: Late May to September

DISTRIBUTION: Throughout North America ~ Statewide in New Jersey; infrequent in Pine Barrens

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Stem flat, narrow, wiry ~ Leaves basal, flat, 1/3 to ½ height of stem, pale green ~ Drab tussocks ~ Flowers on the sides of the stem, single on a branch

Consider the often quoted rhyme when identifying rushes: “Sedges have edges, Rushes are round, Grasses have joints from their tips to the ground.” The stems of rushes are round, like a knitting needle.

GENERAL INFORMATION: The Juncaceae family is commonly known as the Rush family.  The rush family includes eight genera and approximately three hundred species of grass-like plants.  In ancient times rushes were used to make roofs, writing instruments, bedding, caulking for ships and some were used to make arrows.  A more poetic use was for musical pipes.  In the Middle Ages rushes were used to cover cold stone floors and were swept away when dirty. The presence of rushes indicates damp soil or low meadows.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.