About
Cyperus longus, the sweet galingale, is a spreading, rhizomatous sedge forming clumps of arching, rough-edged, shining, narrow leaves to 1 cm wide and olive-green to brown flower spikelets in summer. A robust and ornamental native sedge for a pond margin or moist border.
About the genus
Cyperus, the galingales, are annuals or evergreen, rhizomatous perennials with linear, grass-like leaves and terminal clusters of small, greenish flower-spikes with spreading, leaf-like bracts beneath. They range from the giant papyrus to compact aquatic and marginal sedges grown for their architectural form.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs, Grass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageSemi evergreen, Evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moisture-retentive soil in sun or light shade, can be grown as marginal or bog plant in water up to 30cm deep. Can be grown in large containers to prevent spread of invasive roots. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningTrim off old foliage to just above the level of the water in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division or by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free