Cyperus longus - Sweet Galingale, Native Pond Marginal Plant
Cyperus longus, known as sweet galingale, is a UK native sedge with glossy, arching, narrow leaves. From July to September it carries loose heads of olive-green to brown spikelets, which turn reddish-brown in autumn.
Sweet galingale at a glance
| Botanical name | Cyperus longus |
|---|---|
| Common name | Sweet galingale |
| Plant type | Tall sedge; spreads by rhizomes; semi-evergreen |
| Height and spread | About 90 cm–1.5 m tall, spreading 1–1.5 m |
| Flowers | Olive-green to brown spikelets in loose heads, July to September |
| Position | Full sun or part shade |
| Soil | Wet, poorly drained clay or loam; any pH |
| Pond depth | 0–30 cm of water; shallower in small ponds |
| Hardiness | RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) |
| Native to | UK (scarce native of southern England) |
Does sweet galingale spread?
Yes. It spreads by vigorous rhizomes, so the RHS advises growing it in a container or basket. It suits larger ponds best.
Where to plant it
- Larger wildlife ponds, in a basket
- Pond shelves up to 30 cm deep
- Wet ground beside a pond
Is it legal to grow?
Yes. It is not on any restricted list. Wild colonies are scarce and Near Threatened in Great Britain, so buy nursery-grown plants and do not plant it into wild sites near native colonies.
How to plant and care for it
Plant from spring to late summer. Trim the old foliage in autumn. Koi and ducks may eat it.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
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