FLORA OF ICELAND elements: Juncus arcticus ssp. arcticus, Arctic Rush, Hrossanál

Juncus arcticus ssp. arcticus; The Arctic Rush has two subspecies ("arctica" and "intermedius"). Also, there is a similar species being Juncus baltica "Baltic Rush"). The arctica subspecies has very compact inflorescences whereas the Baltic Rush has very loose inflorescences. You probably have guessed by now: the "intermedius" subspecies of Juncus arcticus holds the middle. Another difference is that the Arctic rush has darker black inflorescences. See further description of J. balticus and J.arcticus ssp. intermedius at their specific pages.

The Arctic Rush can be identified by the rather loose culms and the compact inflorescence about 3/4 of the leaf. (the part on top of the inflorescence is technically speaking actually a bract). It grows all over Iceland especially where wet and drier soils meet. The Icelandic name for both subspecies is Hrossanál.
It is a member of the rush family (Juncaceae).

A brief introduction to Iceland plants
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Other Lily family & related families members and rush family members

Other Lily family & related families members and rush family members

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Natural History of Iceland Site  in Dutch

Natural History of Iceland Site  Dutch