Juncus effusus 'Liebeslocken'

A new twist (excuse the pun) on a foliage plant, the corkscrew rush is as whacky as they come. Rocking the messy ‘bed head’ look, the leaves of this plant are glossy, smooth, cylindrical and wildly twisted, bringing a fun, playful texture to a more smooth and sophisticated houseplant collection. 

A ‘rush’ looks like grass, but isn’t. It’s easily identified by its cylindrical leaves that are fluted and hollow. More commonly grown as an outdoor plant, there’s no reason it can’t be grown indoors under the right conditions. Being a bit of an outsider, both literally and metaphorically, Juncus effusus are ‘marginal’ plants that like to live on the water’s edge. This  makes it the perfect plant for all of you overwaterers out there - yes, finally! It needs a steady supply and can even tolerate being partially submerged, which makes sense given its natural marshy, boggy, wetland habitat. Keep Jacob well watered throughout winter. Unlike most of your other houseplants which become more hands off, juncus needs consistently wet feet. 

Juncus effusus is a clump forming plant that will grow sideways by putting out roots that creep along the soil surface. It will start to panic if it gets too claustrophobic so keep an eye on its repotting needs. Prune it in spring, cutting back leaves that have turned brown and give it a liquid fertiliser after. This will give it the boost it needs for the growing season ahead. 

Did you know?

The common rush, Juncus effusus, is known as igusa in Japanese, and is used to weave tatami mats. In fact, many cultures across the world use the light fibrous leaves of this plant to weave insulating textiles.