Juncus tenuis (Fr: jonc grêle | En: Slender path rush)

Description:

Juncus tenuis is a familiar rush on most of my hikes. One of the few plants that prefers hardpacked soil it can tolerate quite a bit of foot traffic compared to other plants. It can also tolerate an occasional mowing. 

It forms clumps usually between 15 and 30 cm though sometimes reaching a bit higher in ideal circumstances. 

As for wildlife, numerous insects feed on rushes including many grasshoppers and katydids. 

Consider this slender rush along your paths, or mixed in with other hardy species for a native lawn alternative. 

Habitat: trails, marshes,

Sun requirements: Full Sun, part shade

Moisture requirements: moderate to wet

Soil requirements: variable