Citation: L., Sp. Pl. 328 (1753).

Synonymy: J. plebeius R. Br., Prod. Fl. Nov. Holl. 259 (1810). , Juncus bufonius, Juncus tenuis

Common name: Toad rush.

Description:
A slender annual, 2-30 cm tall; leaves flat, not septate, channelled, filiform, 2 or 3 on the stems, shorter than or somewhat longer than the inflorescence.

Flowers typically pale and solitary along the spike-like branches of a panicle, 1.5-12 cm long, but sometimes 2-6 in clusters and then often reddish-brown; leafy bracts usually shorter than the particle but sometimes longer.

Perianth-segments linear-lanceolate, the outer 3, 6-7 mm long, the inner ones and oblong capsule shorter; seeds ovoid, smooth, without tails; stamens 3 or 6.

Published illustration: Cunningham et al. (1982) Plants of western New South Wales, p. 177; Ross-Craig ( 1973) Drawings Brit. Pl. 30:1 .

Distribution:  Cosmopolitan, particularly in temperate areas. Common particularly in damp areas in the south of the State. S.Aust.: NW, GT, FR, EA, EP, NL, MU, YP, SL, KI, SE.   All mainland States. Conservation status: native Flowering time: throughout the year.

SA Distribution Map based on current data relating to specimens held in the State Herbarium of South Australia

Biology: Black recognised var. fasciculatus (Bertol.) Koch, Syn. Fl. Germ. Helv. edn 1, 2:732 (1837). The species is variable in many parts of its range and there are also probably some closely similar but distinct species in the group, which is in need of further study on a world basis. Possibly introduced in Australia or perhaps some forms native.

Author: Not yet available