About
An evergreen perennial rush, to a height of up to 2m, with round, solid green stems and a very vigorous root system. Brown to green flowers, in loose bunches appear from the tops or sides of the stems throughout summer.
About the genus
Schoenoplectus are moisture-loving, rhizomatous evergreen perennials with grass-like foliage and insignificant brown flowers in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Grass Like, Bogs
HabitBushy, Tufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toEurope, Mediterranean, to Mongolia, S. Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile wet soil, or in water up to 30cm (12in) deep, in full sun. Avoid planting in lined ponds, where the roots can pierce the liner. This bullrush is vigorous plant and best planted in large, natural/clay puddled wildlife ponds where it can spread. Alternatively, plant in containers of heavy loam. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningTrim back regularly to restrict spread
PropagationPropagate by division. Root sections of rhizome from mid-spring to midsummer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free