About
This elegant aquatic perennial with narrow linear, grass-like green leaves 20-75cm long. Dark brown flowers are produced in cylindrical spikes 1.5-5cm long on erect stems in mid- to late summer.
About the genus
Typha are deciduous, rhizomatous perennials from marginal aquatic habitats, with long strap-shaped leaves and characteristic dark brown, cylindrical flower spikes in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Grass Like, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitSubmerged, Tufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationPlant in fertile, boggy soil or pond margins at up to 10cm water depth in a sunny spot. Although generally suitable for smaller ponds, containers and aquatic container planting, it still has the potential to become a nuisance if not well managed. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningRemove dead leaves and old flower stems before the onset of new growth in spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free