Found in all manner of wetlands, Great Sprike Rush is a rhizomnous species with round leaves. Its height is somewhat dependent on how much water the plant is growing in, but can reach up to four feet. The seeds can be quite sticky. In shallow lakes, it is found with Calmagrostis candensis, Rosa palustris, and Sagittaria latifolia. In wet prairies, it is found with Andropogon gerardii, Helianthus mollis, and Viola lanceolata. This plant is often used in aquariums.