This tall, robust, leafless aquatic plant forms a grass-like clump of triangular green stems that rise up from thick, woody rhizomes. Each stem is topped by a dense cluster of thin, bright green, thread-like stems around 10 to 30 cm (4 to 10 in) in length, resembling a feather duster when the plant is young. Greenish-brown flower clusters eventually appear at the ends of the rays, giving way to brown, nut-like fruits.

The younger parts of the rhizome are covered by red-brown, papery, triangular scales, which also cover the base of the culms. Botanically, these represent reduced leaves, so strictly it is not quite correct to call this plant fully "leafless".

Moist soils are preferred, and full to part sun.

Type: Perennial or annual in colder climates. Can be brought indoors in winter.

Hardiness zones: 8-10

Height: Up to 5' first season if grown as an annual. Can grow up to 4m over several seasons if grown as a perennial.

Seeds per packet: 10