Do you know the differences between tule, cattail, rushes and sedges? Let’s learn about the three plant families Cyperaceae, Juncaceae and Typhaceae.
Cyperaceae is the sedge family, which includes tule, bulrush and other sedges. The sedge Carex is common in the county. In fact, there are 36 species of Carex in Marin. Both the California tule and the common tule (Schoenoplectus) grow in Marin.
Juncaceae is the rush family. There are 15 species of rushes in Marin. California grey rush, Juncus patens, is commonly used in gardens because of its grass-like appearance and low-water use.
Typhaceae is the family of cattails. You may have seen these tall, graceful plants growing at the edge of fresh or brackish water. Typha latifolia has a cylindric stem and those distinctive, red-brown flower spikes.
— Katie Martin, UC Marin Master Gardener
