Pendulous Sedge

A bold and vigorous native of British woodlands and stream banks, the Pendulous Sedge is a majestic plant for the right location. It forms large, imposing clumps of broad, arching, ribbed evergreen leaves. In late spring and early summer, it produces long, hanging, catkin-like flower spikes that can reach over a metre in length, gracefully curving towards the ground. These flower heads are a source of food for various insects and add a dramatic vertical element to the shade garden. Because it is highly vigorous and self-seeds freely, it is best suited for large, wilder gardens, damp woodland areas, or alongside water features where its scale can be appreciated. It is exceptionally tough, thriving in heavy clay and deep shade where few other plants will grow. If it becomes too large or seeds into unwanted areas, it is easily managed by removing the flower heads before they drop seed. It provides excellent year-round cover for wildlife.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist to wet, heavy clay or loam.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.