Juncus textilis

Juncus textilis
File:Juncus textilis.jpg
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Monocots
(unranked):	Commelinids
Order:	Poales
Family:	Juncaceae
Genus:	Juncus
Species:	J. textilis
Binomial name
Juncus textilis Buchenau

Juncus textilis is a species of rush known by the common name basket rush. It is endemic to California, where it grows along the coast and in the coastal mountain ranges of the southern half of the state.

Description

Juncus textilis is a rhizomatous perennial herb growing to a maximum height between 1–2 metres (3.3–6.6 ft). The stems are cylindrical with faint longitudinal grooves. The leaves lack blades and appear as small brown sheaths around the base of the stems.

The long, bushy inflorescence arises from the side of the stem and splits into long branches bearing clusters of many flowers. Each flower is cupped by small, clear bractlets and has pointed greenish brown tepals. There are six stamens with large anthers. The fruit is a dark brown, shiny capsule.

Uses

This species of rush has been used historically for basket weaving by several Native American peoples of southern California, such as the Cahuilla, Kumeyaay, and Chumash, among others.

The rush was valued for its varied colors, from deep red to sun-dried tan; the stems were dyed black with sea plants such as Suaeda species and yellow with Psorothamnus emoryi.

External links

• Calflora Database: Juncus textilis (basket rush)
• Jepson Manual eFlora (TJM2) treatment of Juncus textilis
• USDA Plants Profile for Juncus textilis (basket rush)
• University of Michigan at Dearborn: Native American Ethnobotany of Juncus textilis
• Flora of North America
• Juncus textilis — U.C. Photo gallery