Carex riparia, known as greater pond sedge, is a tall UK native sedge of ditches, ponds and riverbanks. It has broad, strap-like, blue-green to bright green leaves, and in May and June carries stout, dark brown flower spikes.

Greater pond sedge at a glance

Botanical name Carex riparia
Common name Greater pond sedge
Plant type Tall sedge with creeping roots; dies back in winter
Height and spread About 1–1.5 m tall, 1–1.5 m wide
Flowers Dark brown, stout upright spikes, May and June
Position Full sun or part shade
Soil Fertile, wet, poorly drained clay or loam; any pH
Pond depth 5–15 cm of water
Hardiness RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C)
Native to UK (native)

Is greater pond sedge suitable for a small pond?

Only in a basket. The RHS calls it a vigorously spreading plant, and it also spreads by wind-blown seed. It is best on the margins of larger ponds; in small ponds, grow it in a basket.

Where to plant it

  • The margins of large wildlife ponds, 5–15 cm deep
  • Heavy, wet clay beside ponds and ditches

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer. It is generally free of diseases but may be attacked by aphids.

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.

Pond depth: 5 - 15cm

Light: Full sun or part shade

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 120cm+ tall, 100cm+ wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

Processing Time:
Orders are processed within 1 - 3 business day after payment confirmation. Orders placed on weekends or public holidays will be processed the next business day.

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Should you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, feel free to contact us.