Juncus ensifolius - Flying Hedgehogs Rush, Pond Marginal Plant

Juncus ensifolius, known as swordleaf rush or 'flying hedgehogs', is a small rush with flat, iris-like leaves. In summer it carries round purple-brown flower heads that age to dark brown seed heads, said to look like tiny hedgehogs.

Swordleaf rush at a glance

Botanical name	Juncus ensifolius
Common name	Swordleaf rush, flying hedgehogs
Plant type	Semi-evergreen rush with flat, iris-like leaves
Height and spread	About 20–45 cm tall, about 50 cm wide
Flowers	Round purple-brown heads in summer, ageing to dark brown "hedgehog" seed heads
Position	Full sun or part shade
Soil	Moist to boggy, acid soil or shallow water
Pond depth	0–10 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness	RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to	North America and East Asia (not UK native)

Where to plant it

The edge of a pond, up to 10 cm deep
Small ponds and container ponds
Bog gardens with acid soil

Does it self-seed?

It can seed into neighbouring plants. Trim off the seed heads if you want to stop this.

Is it poisonous?

The RHS Plants shop lists it as toxic if eaten and as a skin and eye irritant. 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.