[Wikipedia] Phytoremediation: Juncus Xiphoides is helpful to the environment in many ways. The plant helps to retain cleanliness of the water through plant phytoremediation. Plant phytoremediation utilizes the plant species to conduct the cleaning of contaminated soil and water found in the soil. This process makes use of the natural abilities of plants to have proper intake, collection and breakdown of soil components and the water found in the environment. It is very economical and healthy for the environment, also decreasing toxic contaminants in the soil and groundwater through soaking up water as well as nutrients from their roots It is seen that Juncus xiphioides has a greater affinity for wetland selenium phytoremediation, similar to other species such as Myriophyllum brasiliense (Parrot?s feather), Typha latifolia (Cattail), and Scripus robustus (Saltmarsh bulrush). (link added by Mary Ann Machi)