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Curved Woodrush

Luzula arcuata

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Poales
Family:
Juncaceae (Rush)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
40 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Bogs, gardens, mountains, riverbanks, riversides, rocky places, waterside, wetland, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Brown, 6 petals
 
A small cluster of rich brown flowers. Flowerheads are mostly on drooping stalks.
Fruit:
The fruit is a brown capsule.
Leaves:
A grass-like perennial plant with grooved leaves and sometimes hairless. Slightly curved.
Other Names:
Arching Jonquil, Arching Woodrush.
Frequency (UK):
Rarely seen  

Other Information

Summary

Luzula arcuata, commonly known as arching woodrush or arching jonquil, is a species of perennial herb in the Juncaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, typically found in damp, shady areas such as woods, bogs, and along streams and rivers. It has small, greenish-brown flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and glossy, dark green leaves. It is a small plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall and is known for its basal leaves that are arranged in a rosette. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and it is known for its ability to thrive in damp and shady areas. It is also used in traditional medicine, but there is not enough scientific evidence to support its medicinal properties. The plant is named for its arching or curved leaves and flowers, which give it a distinctive appearance.

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Curved Woodrush (Luzula arcuata) is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Juncaceae. It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America and Europe and can grow up to 40 cm tall. This plant is known for its attractive foliage and delicate, creamy white flowers that bloom in the spring.

The leaves of Curved Woodrush are linear and measure up to 10 cm in length and 4 mm in width. They are dark green and glossy and grow from the base of the plant. The foliage provides an attractive backdrop for the delicate flowers, which grow in loose, terminal spikes. Each flower has six petals and a yellow anther, and they are surrounded by three to four bracts.

Curved Woodrush is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of soils, from clay to sand. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun. This plant is also drought-tolerant and is well-suited to rock gardens and woodland edges. It is a slow-growing plant that will eventually form a clump, and it is easy to propagate by division.

In addition to its ornamental value, Curved Woodrush has a number of medicinal uses. The plant contains a range of chemicals, including tannins, which have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, a decoction of the plant has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin complaints, digestive problems, and respiratory infections.

Curved Woodrush is an attractive and versatile plant that is well-suited to a range of gardening styles. Whether you are looking for an eye-catching addition to your rock garden, or a hardy plant for a woodland edge, this plant is sure to impress.

Curved Woodrush is also an important food source for a number of wildlife species, including insects, rodents, and birds. The seeds of the plant are rich in oils and carbohydrates and provide a valuable food source for small mammals and birds during the winter months. Additionally, the foliage of the plant provides a habitat for a variety of insects, including bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to any garden with an emphasis on wildlife.

Another unique characteristic of Curved Woodrush is its ability to adapt to a range of growing conditions. It is a very hardy plant that can tolerate harsh weather conditions, including frost and snow, making it an ideal choice for gardens in cooler climates. Additionally, this plant is resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it low-maintenance and easy to care for.

When it comes to planting Curved Woodrush, it is best to plant in the spring or autumn, in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Space the plants about 25-30 cm apart to allow for adequate growth and spread, and be sure to water them regularly during the growing season. If desired, you can also fertilize the plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, which will promote healthy growth and flowering.

Curved Woodrush is an attractive and versatile plant that is well-suited to a range of gardening styles. Whether you are looking for an eye-catching addition to your rock garden, a low-maintenance ground cover, or a wildlife-friendly addition to your garden, this plant is sure to impress. With its attractive foliage, delicate flowers, and adaptability to a range of growing conditions, it is an excellent choice for any gardener looking to add some unique beauty to their garden.

In terms of garden design, Curved Woodrush is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It makes an excellent ground cover and can be used to fill in empty spaces in the garden or to add texture to the landscape. Additionally, it can be used as an accent plant in rock gardens or woodland gardens, providing a delicate contrast to the bold lines and textures of surrounding rocks and trees.

This plant is also an excellent choice for a wildflower garden, providing a source of food and habitat for wildlife, as well as adding a delicate touch of beauty to the garden. When planting a wildflower garden, consider pairing Curved Woodrush with other spring-blooming wildflowers, such as trilliums, bleeding hearts, and wild columbine, to create a stunning display of color and texture.

Finally, Curved Woodrush is also a great choice for gardeners looking to create an eco-friendly garden. This plant is native to North America and Europe, making it an excellent choice for gardens that aim to promote the growth of native species. Additionally, it requires very little maintenance and is resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it a low-impact, low-maintenance addition to the garden.

In conclusion, Curved Woodrush is a beautiful and versatile plant that is well-suited to a range of gardening styles. With its delicate flowers, attractive foliage, and adaptability to a range of growing conditions, it is an excellent choice for any gardener looking to add some unique beauty to their garden.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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