It is endemic to California, where it grows along the coast and in the coastal mountain ranges of the southern half of the state.

[1] Juncus textilis is a rhizomatous perennial herb growing to a maximum height between 1 and 2 metres (3.3 and 6.6 ft).

Each flower is cupped by small, clear bractlets and has pointed greenish brown tepals.

This species of rush has been used historically for basket weaving by several Native American peoples of southern California, such as the Cahuilla, Kumeyaay, and Chumash, among others.

[2] Juncus textilis is an important plant endemic to California; Chumash people use it today for basket-making as they have been for centuries.