Reedmace

Map of Distribution of Reedmace in Buckinghamshire
© Buckinghamshire Environmental Records Centre

Reedmace is a familiar water plant that is often, but incorrectly, known as bulrush. It can grow up to two and a half metres tall and has long thin leaves.

Reedmace
© Richard Bowsher

The flowers, which can be seen in June and July, are brown sausage-shapes with straw coloured spikes coming out of the top. The seeds are dispersed by the wind, much like those of dandelions. A single flower can produce as many as 200,000 seeds.

Reedmace grows in wet soil and shallow water on the edges of lakes, ponds, reservoirs, canals and ditches. It can be very invasive and if given the chance will form large reedbeds that are a haven for wildlife, especially birds.

For more information call 01296 696012 or email erc@buckscc.gov.uk

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