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FernsAquaticBogs

Pilularia globulifera

common pillwort

A small, wetland fern, with creeping rhizomes producing slender, thread-like cylindrical fronds to 8cm high, giving it a grass-like appearance. Small round spore-bearing structures are formed at the base of the fronds in summer

Other common names
pepper grass
pepper moss
Synonyms
Pilularia pilulifera
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Marsileaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Thrives 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

Propagation

Propagate by spores or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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