Sparganium americanum
Sparganium americanum
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Pl. 10E2 — Sparganium americanum
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IOverview
Overview
Sparganium americanum, commonly known as American bur-reed, is a perennial forb or herb found in wetlands across North America and parts of Mexico. Native to Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and other states, it thrives in light to partial sun with full sun preferred. This plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and is adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils, with a pH range of 4.9 to 7.3. Known for its edible root and stem parts, American bur-reed is both ornamental and useful as an edible plant in natural settings or gardens. Its distinctive feature includes the presence of spiky seed heads that resemble small burrs, which have given it a common name.
Quick answers
What is Sparganium americanum?
Sparganium americanum, commonly known as American bur-reed, is a perennial forb or herb found in wetlands across North America and parts of Mexico. Native to Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and other states, it thrives in light to partial sun with full sun preferred.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sparganium americanum thrives in full to partial sun and requires wet conditions, making it ideal for bog gardens or areas with standing water. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 4.9–7.3. This perennial can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, divide the roots in spring or take stem cuttings. The edible parts include the root and stem, which can be harvested for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.9–7.3
For first-time growers
How to grow Sparganium americanum for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, water-loving plant that thrives in wet conditions and is easy to grow.
- 1
What you'll need
A container or planting site with plenty of water, suitable soil, and a rooted Sparganium americanum plant.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up, ensuring the ground is not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, medium, or heavy soil that retains moisture but drains well. Ensure your container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a rooted plant into your prepared site or container, ensuring the roots are fully covered with soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days to prevent shock.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide plenty of water, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly if needed, using a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter or early spring to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too sunny a location, neglecting to provide enough water during dry periods, using heavy fertilizers, and not pruning regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:RootStem
Edible uses: The root and stem of Sparganium americanum are edible. Typically, these parts are harvested from wet environments where the plant grows and can be eaten raw or cooked. They may also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas1 region
native (1)Colombia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, Nova Scotia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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