Baltic rush is also called wire rush. The plants can be up to 3 feet tall, with flowers growing in small clusters on the side of the stem. This is the most common of all rushes in this part of the west, growing along streams, in wet meadows and other moist areas.
Cattle don't like to eat Baltic rush because of its tough stems. Elk are less picky, however, and eat it during the summer. Birds hide among its stems and it's also used by muskrats to build their huts and for food.
Baltic rush has dense roots which make it a great plant along stream banks, because it holds onto the soil and prevents erosion.
Cool Fact:
Local Indians made dyes out of its roots and used the stems for baskets and mats.
