Rush Grass (Juncus)

Juncus is a globally distributed genus in the rush family, with roughly 315 species recorded by Kew. Rushes range from annual to perennial herbs, and may grow in tufts or from rhizomes; their leaves can be flat, channelled, or cylindrical. This genus-level entry represents diverse plants rather than one uniform garden selection. ## About the genus The [Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30001343-2/general-information) treats Juncus as an accepted genus and describes its range as nearly cosmopolitan, with most species in temperate regions. Several species are grown ornamentally, but mature size, foliage form, flowering, hardiness, and preferred moisture vary. Use an exact species or cultivar identification when choosing a planting site or comparing garden performance. ## Growing context Cultivated selections can have specialized landscape uses. Avoid applying the care profile of one Juncus species to the entire genus; check local species-level guidance for water, sun, soil, and spread. A useful identification should include mature seed capsules and seeds, which botanical descriptions use to distinguish related rushes. ## Maintenance Match cutting back, moisture, and containment to the identified species and its role in the garden. Remove damaged or unwanted stems when needed, and monitor rhizomatous plants where spread could affect nearby plantings.