Carex pendula - Pendulous Sedge, Native Pond Marginal Plant

Carex pendula, known as pendulous sedge, is a UK native evergreen sedge of damp woodland and wet, shady ground. It forms tufts of dark green, pleated leaves, and from May to July sends up arching stems hung with long, drooping, catkin-like flower spikes.

Pendulous sedge at a glance

Botanical name	Carex pendula
Common name	Pendulous sedge, weeping sedge
Plant type	Evergreen, clump-forming sedge
Height and spread	Leaves to about 90 cm; flower stems 1–1.5 m. 50–100 cm wide
Flowers	Long, drooping, catkin-like spikes, May to July
Position	Full sun to deep shade; any aspect
Soil	Moist to wet, including heavy clay; tolerates drier soil
Pond depth	0–15 cm of water at most
Hardiness	RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C)
Native to	UK (native)

Does pendulous sedge self-seed?

Yes, very readily. The RHS lists it as a weed with the potential to become a nuisance, as seedlings spread into borders and lawns. Cut off the flower spikes in midsummer before the seed sets, and do not put the seed heads on a home compost heap.

Where to plant it

Shady, damp pond edges, up to 15 cm deep
Wet clay and damp woodland gardens
Larger wildlife gardens, where it has room

Is it good for wildlife?

The dense evergreen leaves give insects shelter through winter. Wear gloves when handling it, as the leaf edges are sharp.

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.