Carex riparia - Greater Pond Sedge, Native Pond Marginal Plant

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.