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Carex riparia

greater pond sedge

A vigorously spreading rhizomatous perennial with linear, glaucous green leaves and tall stems bearing stout, erect, dark brown flowering spikes in early summer

Other common names
greater bank sedge
hesgen braff-dywysennog
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Brown Green Grey Silver Brown
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Cyperaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Genus

Carex can be deciduous or evergreen, rhizomatous or tufted perennials, with triangular stems bearing linear or strap-shaped leaves and short or long spikes of tiny green or brown flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to C Asia & S S. Amer.

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist or wet soil in sun or partial shade. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in autumn, or by division from mid-spring to early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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