What is Flowering Rush?
Flowering rush is an invasive and perennial semi-aquatic plant. The species is originally from Eurasia and was likely introduced as an ornamental garden plant. It was first found in the St. Lawrence river in 1897 and since then has spread across southern Canada.
Why is Flowering Rush a Problem?
It is a high priority to tackle this species because it is outcompeting native vegetation, decreasing habitat for fish and wildlife and creating access issues for property owners. Flowering Rush is listed as prohibited noxious in the Alberta Weed Control Act and listed as prohibited in the Fisheries (Alberta) Act. The species can grow as an emergent plant along shorelines or submersed in lakes and rivers up to 4m deep. Its ability to grow in deep water is a concern because there is fear the plant may choke out shallow lake areas.
How is Flowering Rush Spread?
Flowering Rush is extremely hardy and can spread through seeds or vegetatively through its roots. The species is also capable of dispersing by breaking of the root system into segments called “bulblets.” A plant can produce 12 to 43 bulblets a year and each of these has the potential to grow into a new plant.
Where is Flowering Rush in Alberta?
This aquatic invasive plant has been found in 12 locations across Alberta, with the worst infestation being found at Lake Isle.
You can use the Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System (EDDmaps) to find out where flowering rush has been reported.
You can use the Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System (EDDmaps) to find out where flowering rush has been reported.
Background Image: Alberta Environment and Parks 2016
albertaaquaticinvasives.ca is a collaborative project supported by the Edmonton Trout Fishing Club and Alberta Environment and Parks.