Carex acuta - Slender Tufted Sedge, Native Pond Marginal Plant

Carex acuta (also known as Carex gracilis), slender tufted sedge, is a tall UK native sedge with long, narrow, bluish-grey leaves and sharply three-angled stems. In late spring and summer it carries brown to blackish flower spikes. It is a different plant from lesser pond sedge, Carex acutiformis.

Slender tufted sedge at a glance

Is it suitable for a small pond?

It is better in larger ponds. The RHS Plants shop says it is fast-growing with an invasive tendency, and its roots creep a long way. In smaller ponds, keep it in a basket no deeper than 15 cm.

Where to plant it

• The margins of larger wildlife ponds, up to 15 cm deep
• Wet ground beside rivers and streams
• Damp, lightly shaded spots, including under waterside trees

Is it poisonous?

The RHS Plants shop lists it as toxic if eaten and as a skin and eye irritant, so wear gloves when handling 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.