Sparganium erectum
branched bur reed
S. erectum is a vigorous, erect, semi-evergreen, marginal aquatic perennial with keeled, linear leaves to 1.5m long. In summer it produces branched stems with greenish-white male and female flowers in separate clusters, followed by prickly green, then brown, fruit to 1cm across
Synonyms
Sparganium ramosum![](https://apps.rhs.org.uk/plantselectorimages/detail/MAR0032301_10712.jpg)
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green White | Green | Green | |
Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Typhaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Sparganium are deciduous or semi-evergreen, marginal aquatic perennials producing vigorous stands of lush growth. The leaves are narrow and upright, the flowers small and followed by fleshy, burr-like fruit
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a shallow pool margin, to 45cm deep, in full sun or partial shade. Can spread indefinitely and has potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See pond plants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 15°C as soon as ripe, or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
Cut back old leaves and stems in spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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