About
Pilularia globulifera, common pillwort, is a small, aquatic or semi-aquatic fern producing creeping rhizomes and slender, thread-like, cylindrical fronds to 8 cm tall � giving it an unmistakable grass-like appearance. Small, round, spore-bearing structures form at the base of the fronds in summer. A fascinating native aquatic fern for the shallow margins of ponds and streams.
About the genus
Pilularia are small, aquatic or semi-aquatic ferns with creeping rhizomes and thread-like, grass-like fronds. Native to pond and stream margins in Europe and elsewhere.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeFerns, Aquatic, Bogs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.
Native toEurope
Care notes
CultivationThrives around the edges of seasonally fluctuating ponds and pools, a good plant for boggy ground. Will not tolerate shade or water pollution. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by spores or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free