Answer:
Rush stalks, also known as rushes, were indeed used in medieval times as a covering over stone floors. Stone floors were often cold and uncomfortable to walk on, so people resorted to covering them with a layer of rushes to provide a softer and warmer surface.
In medieval castles, manor houses, and peasant homes, rushes were spread evenly across the stone floors to create a type of temporary carpet. This practice had several benefits. Firstly, rushes provided an insulating layer, keeping the floors warmer during the cold seasons. Secondly, they offered a degree of comfort underfoot, making the walking experience more pleasant. Lastly, rushes helped absorb dust and dirt, which could be easily removed by simply replacing the top layer.
As time went by, rushes began to be plaited or woven together to form mats. This development allowed for more stability of the covering and made it easier to handle. Rush mats were no longer just a loose layer of rushes but were now structured and could be moved from one place to another if needed.
The use of rush stalks as floor coverings eventually declined with the advent of carpets and other more advanced flooring materials. However, even today, the tradition of using rush mats can still be found in certain rural or traditional settings as a decorative element or for practical purposes.
Rush stalks were used in medieval times as a covering over stone floors. Later they were plaited into mats.