Carex acutiformis - Lesser Pond Sedge, Native Pond Marginal Plant

Carex acutiformis, known as lesser pond sedge, is a robust UK native sedge with narrow, blue-green leaves that droop at the tips and sharply three-angled stems. In summer it carries pale brown flower spikes, followed by black seed heads.

Lesser pond sedge at a glance

Botanical name	Carex acutiformis
Common name	Lesser pond sedge
Plant type	Clump-forming sedge with creeping roots; dies back in winter
Height and spread	About 60 cm–1.5 m tall, 1–1.5 m wide
Flowers	Pale brown spikes in summer, followed by black seed heads
Position	Full sun or part shade; tolerates shade
Soil	Wet, poorly drained clay or loam; any pH
Pond depth	0–15 cm of water, or wet mud
Hardiness	RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to	UK (native)

Is lesser pond sedge suitable for a small pond?

No. It spreads by creeping roots, and the RHS says it is suitable only for large pond areas. In a smaller pond, keep it in a pot or basket to restrict its spread.

Where to plant it

The margins of large wildlife ponds, up to 15 cm deep
Wet clay and boggy ground
Natural banks, where it can spread

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer. It is generally free of pests and diseases, though koi and ducks may graze 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.