About Sparganium eurycarpum Engelm.
Sparganium eurycarpum Engelm. is a species of bur-reed that has two common names: broadfruit bur-reed and giant bur-reed. It is native to wetland habitats across Eurasia and North America. This plant is a clonal perennial that spreads via underground rhizomes. The common name "bur-reed" comes from its distinctive round fruit clusters, which have a mace-like shape. It can be told apart from all other bur-reed species by the presence of two stigmas. This species often grows in areas that experience spring flooding, and it can grow exposed above the water surface during periods of low water. Its buried rhizomes allow it to survive periods of drought, fire, or ice scouring. Its flowers are pollinated by wind, and male flower clusters are separate from, and positioned higher than, female flower clusters. It also produces large seeds that can build up in soil as buried seed reserves. When growing conditions are favorable, it can form dense stands; for example, Sparganium is one of the four main vegetation types found in the Ottawa River, Canada. Muskrats feed on this plant, especially its rhizomes, while its seeds are an important food source for waterfowl.
