Cyperus longus
sweet galingale
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.
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 | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen or 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
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.