Sparganium erectum
branched bur reed
S. erectum is a vigorous, erect, semi-evergreen, marginal aquatic perennial with keeled, linear leaves to 1.5m long. In summer it produces branched stems with greenish-white male and female flowers in separate clusters, followed by prickly green, then brown, fruit to 1cm across
Synonyms
Sparganium ramosum
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green White | Green | Green | |
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Typhaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Sparganium are deciduous or semi-evergreen, marginal aquatic perennials producing vigorous stands of lush growth. The leaves are narrow and upright, the flowers small and followed by fleshy, burr-like fruit
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a shallow pool margin, to 45cm deep, in full sun or partial shade. Can spread indefinitely and has potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See pond plants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 15°C as soon as ripe, or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
Cut back old leaves and stems in spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.