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AquaticBogsHerbaceous Perennial
Eleocharis palustris
common spike-rush
A perennial sedge with an upright, tufted habit, reaching up to 60cm in height and spreading through creeping rhizomes. It's dark green, solid, cylindrical stems are smooth and topped with delicate, brown, egg-shaped spikelets that appear from May to July. At the base, reddish-purple sheaths provide subtle contrast
Synonyms
Scirpus palustrisBuy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen or Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Temp. N. Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moisture-retentive situations such as pond margins. See pond plants and bog gardens for further information
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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