The pickerel rush bears shiny olive green spearhead-shape leaves above 2 to 3-foot stems. It quickly forms dense clumps. The spike-shape blue flower clusters begin to bloom in early summer and last until fall. Plant two or three clusters together in a large container for the best effect. This plant does equally well in full sun or partial shade. Its roots should be covered with 2 to 12 inches of water. Move it to the deepest part of the pool during the winter. Pickerel rush makes a striking specimen plant for medium to large gardens, but it can be a bit overbearing in a small one. The flowers last well when cut.
This plant will dramatically compete with the algae by reducing the nutrients available to the algae.
