Carex acutiformis
lesser pond sedge
A robust, clump-forming, perennial native sedge of ponds, streams and boggy areas, spreading to form very dense clumps of pale, greyish-green foliage about 1.2m tall. Produces tall, fluffy, pale brown flower spikes in summer, followed by black seed heads
Synonyms
Carex paludosaBuy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Grey Silver Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown | Grey Silver Green | ||
| Autumn | Grey Silver Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming, 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
- E Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any waterside location, boggy or wet soils in sun or part shade. Robust, spreading plant only suited to large pond areas. See bog gardening and pond plants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in mid spring to early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required, tidy if possible after foliage begins to die down
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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