Scirpus californicus (giant bulrush) wetland mesocosms were subjected to four hydroperiods (pulsed-discharge regimes). The most frequently pulsed treatment (twice per day) was the most efficient at removing metals from synthetic wastewater. This was attributed to the formation of iron oxyhydroxides, which complex with the metals. The continuously flooded treatment had slightly lower removal rates. After a year of metal additions, mean removal efficiencies were 75–78% for cadmium, chromium, and zinc, 84% for lead, and 55% for mickel. Most of the metals were retained in the soil. The fine roots accumulated roughly 35% of the added cadmium, 6% of the copper, and 13% of the zinc. The shoots, rhizomes, and coarse roots each accumulated about 1% or less of the added metals. Indications are that wetland treatment, especially with hydroperiod manipulation, can reduce metal concentrations in wastewater and, therefore, in downstream ecosystems.