Cyperus longus - Sweet Galingale, Native Pond Marginal Plant

Cyperus longus, known as sweet galingale, is a UK native sedge with glossy, arching, narrow leaves. From July to September it carries loose heads of olive-green to brown spikelets, which turn reddish-brown in autumn.

Sweet galingale at a glance

Botanical name	Cyperus longus
Common name	Sweet galingale
Plant type	Tall sedge; spreads by rhizomes; semi-evergreen
Height and spread	About 90 cm–1.5 m tall, spreading 1–1.5 m
Flowers	Olive-green to brown spikelets in loose heads, July to September
Position	Full sun or part shade
Soil	Wet, poorly drained clay or loam; any pH
Pond depth	0–30 cm of water; shallower in small ponds
Hardiness	RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C)
Native to	UK (scarce native of southern England)

Does sweet galingale spread?

Yes. It spreads by vigorous rhizomes, so the RHS advises growing it in a container or basket. It suits larger ponds best.

Where to plant it

Larger wildlife ponds, in a basket
Pond shelves up to 30 cm deep
Wet ground beside a pond

Is it legal to grow?

Yes. It is not on any restricted list. Wild colonies are scarce and Near Threatened in Great Britain, so buy nursery-grown plants and do not plant it into wild sites near native colonies.

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer. Trim the old foliage in autumn. Koi and ducks may eat 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.