Genus Eleocharis R. Brown, Spikerush
The name Eleocharis is derived from the Greek words meaning "graceful marsh dweller". All species of the Eleocharis genus are distinctive by their complete lack of leaf blades and bracts. The leaf sheaths, however, are present and are sometimes a helpful diagnostic during identification. There are ten species of Eleocharis found in Renfrew County. The figure below compares the achenes and scales of all 10 species.
- Eleocharis acicularis
- Eleocharis elliptica
- Eleocharis erythropoda
- Eleocharis flavescens
- Eleocharis intermedia
- Eleocharis obtusa
- Eleocharis ovata
- Eleocharis palustris
- Eleocharis quinqueflora
- Eleocharis robbinsii
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Figure 1. Achenes and scales of Eleocharis. All to same scale.