SafePlants

Simplestem Bur-reed (Sparganium erectum)

Sparganium erectum, commonly known as simplestem bur-reed or branched bur-reed, is a perennial plant found in various wetland habitats.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows from winding, crawling rhizomes, which could potentially be unearthed and ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant may be found in muddy or peaty shores, so children might encounter it while exploring aquatic areas.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Sparganium erectum L.
• Common Names: Simplestem bur-reed, Branched bur-reed, Bur Reed, Exotic bur-reed
• Family: Sparganiaceae (formerly known as the Bur-reed Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Group: Monocot
• Synonyms: Sparganium polyedrum, Sparganium ramosum
• Taxonomic Rank: Includes subspecies such as Sparganium erectum ssp. stoloniferum

Distribution and Habitat

• The simplestem bur-reed is native to L48 I (presumably a North American region).
• It is found in northern Eurasia, Europe, and Asia.
• It grows in still or slowly flowing water, often in muddy or peaty shores.
• It is not typically found on exposed shores or in rapidly moving water, as it is easily uprooted.
• It has also been observed east of the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington and in damp meadows near Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Ecological Role

• In Oregon it is listed as a Federal Noxious Weed.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial forb/herb.
• It grows to a height of 0.3-2 meters.
• The plant is a water plant with winding, crawling and leathery rhizomes.
• It flowers from June to August.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The larvae of the moth Plusia feed on Sparganium erectum.

Further Information

• Information can be found in the Encyclopedia of Life.
• Further details may be available at plants.usda.gov (profile?symbol=SPERS2).