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Great Wood Rush

Luzula Sylvatica

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Overview

The Great Wood Rush, Luzula sylvatica, is a hardy perennial groundcover. It sports broad, grass-like leaves up to 12 inches long and thrives in part to full shade. In late spring, subtle brown flower clusters emerge. It prefers moist, well-drained soil, grows to a height of 18-24 inches with a similar spread, and is excellent for adding texture to shaded areas. This rush is also deer-resistant, enhancing its appeal in woodland gardens.

Sun Full, Half, ShadeWater Extra in Summer, MediumZones 6–9Climate Temperate

Culture

Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Extra in Summer, Medium
USDA zones
6–9

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Juncaceae
Climate
Temperate

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Photos (52)

Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — The Great Wood Rush, Luzula sylvatica, is a hardy perennial groundcover
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — In late spring, subtle brown flower clusters emerge
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — It sports broad, grass-like leaves up to 12 inches long and thrives in part to full shade
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — grows to a height of 18-24 inches with a similar spread
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — scientifically termed Luzula sylvatica
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — and is excellent for adding texture to shaded areas
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — shade-loving grass relative that adds texture and resilience to your landscape design
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — This rush is also deer-resistant, enhancing its appeal in woodland gardens
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — capable of withstanding temperatures down to -20°F
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — This robust plant thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 7
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — rendering it an ideal choice for year-round interest.<br><br>The foliage of the Great Wood Rush is a standout
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — It presents tufted evergreen foliage that remains vibrant throughout the year
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — In early to mid-spring, the plant produces understated yet attractive flower clusters
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — These leaves are often adorned with hairs, which provide a unique, slightly silvery sheen
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — dark green leaves that reach up to 12 to 18 inches in length and about 1 inch in width
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — offering a subtle contrast to the lush green leaves below.<br><br>As a versatile plant
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — extending up to 20 inches
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — The brown flower spikes rise slightly above the foliage
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — Luzula sylvatica prefers partial to full shade
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — although it demonstrates tolerance to a variety of soil types
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — well-drained soil with high organic content
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — making it an exceptional candidate for woodland gardens or shaded borders
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — It is also known for its resistance to pests and diseases
Great Wood Rush (Luzula Sylvatica) — with the occasional removal of dead foliage to maintain a neat appearance

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