Cyperus longus

RHS Plant Profile
sweet galingale

Other common names

cypress root, galingale, long cyperus, sweet cyperus, sweet cypress, ysnoden fair

Aquatic Bogs Grass Like

An evergreen, spreading perennial sedge forming clumps of arching, rough-edged, glossy, narrow leaves to 1cm wide. In summer, olive-green to brown flowers are borne in small clusters of narrow, flattened spikelets.

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cyperaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen, Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Cyperus can be annuals or evergreen, rhizomatous perennials, with linear, grass-like leaves and terminal clusters of small greenish flower-spikes with spreading leaf-like bracts beneath
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moisture-retentive soil in sun or light shade, can be grown as marginal or bog plant in water up to 30cm deep. Can be grown in large containers to prevent spread of invasive roots. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Trim off old foliage to just above the level of the water in autumn

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free