Eleogiton fluitans Floating Club-rush

A perennial, Oceanic sedge which is largely aquatic but also grows on wet peaty soils, especially if they are seasonally inundated. It prefers oligotrophic, acidic conditions in western Britain but it has been lost from many habitats as a result of drainage. Although superficially similar to some other sedge-like species it is distinguished by its branched stems with single terminal spekelets and glume-like involucral bracts. Confusingly, it is frequently known by other scientific names such as Scirpus fluitans and Isolepis fluitans. It is widespread in Wales but absent from many upland areas. In West Galmaorgan it is frequent in wet areas of the Gower Commons, but less common in Neath Port Tabot where its has declined as a result of habitat loss.

Native