Pygmy rush Juncus pygmaeus is a small annual rush which forms patches often on bare soil. It is a rare species known only from the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall and from west and southern Europe, north west Africa and the European part of Turkey. Growth activity is finely adjusted to hydrological fluctuation, and precise temperature and water conditions in spring control germination. This limitation causes erratic appearance, and increases the plant’s vulnerability. Pygmy rush is the subject of a published Biodiversity Action Plan. The 2000 survey demonstrated evidence of decline in Britain.
A printed copy of this old English Nature report is available from our Enquiry Service. Tel: 0845 600 3078 Email: enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk