Lesser-bulrush-Typha-angustifolia. Also suited to bog gardens

Lesser bulrush (Typha angustifolia)

Name: Lesser bulrush (Typha angustifolia)
SKU: TYPANG
Availability: InStock

Price range: £10.00 through £35.00

Lesser Bulrush (Typha angustifolia) is a native wetland plant with tall, slender leaves and iconic brown seed spikes, offering excellent cover for wildlife. Ideal for large ponds or natural water features, but beware – it spreads fast and isn’t suited to small ponds. A great choice for rewilding and wildlife-friendly watersides.

Size

Clear

SKU: TYPANG Categories: Damp/Bog Gardens, Garden Plants, Marginal, Pond Plants Tags: Birds, Bog Garden, Flowering, Full Sun, Marginal, Native

Lesser Bulrush (Typha angustifolia) is a striking native wetland plant, perfect for larger ponds, lakes, or slow-moving streams – though it’s not suited to small garden ponds due to its vigorous growth. This tall, deciduous perennial forms dense stands of long, arching leaves, topped with classic cylindrical brown flower spikes in summer that persist well into winter.

While its dramatic seedheads add seasonal interest, they also provide vital shelter for birds, amphibians, and small mammals.

Be mindful – its strong roots can puncture pond liners, and it spreads quickly in shallow water, so it’s best for natural wildlife areas where space allows. A fantastic choice for rewilding projects or large water features, but keep an eye on its growth to prevent it from taking over!

Details

Native: Yes
Sun: Full sun
Depth: 1 – 30cm
Height max: 150cm
Spread max: 140cm
RHS PFP: No
RHG AGM: No

Care Instructions

Lesser Bulrush thrives in wetlands, ponds, or slow-moving water but should be avoided in lined ponds as its roots can cause damage. Cut back old foliage before spring and remove fallen seedheads to prevent excess spread.

Regular control is needed to keep it in check – best suited for large, natural water habitats.

Repotting Instructions

Can also be planted in very wet soil – do not allow to dry out.

9cm marginal plants require potting into a mesh basket. Place in a pond no deeper than 1/3 maximum recommended planting depth to allow the plants to establish.

1ltr marginal plants do not require repotting but will benefit from a bigger basket, there is no need to remove the mesh basket. Place in pond no deeper than 1/2 maximum recommended planting depth to allow the plants to establish. Plants over 60cm height growth will benefit from repotting into a larger mesh basket or should be planted in gravel to prevent them from falling over in a breeze.

3ltr and 5ltr plants do not require repotting; there is no need to remove the mesh basket. Place on the shelf of the pond at the required depth.