Bur Reed, Simplestem bur-reed
Sparganium erectum

Family: Sparganiaceae

What it is like

Sparganium erectum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Muddy or peaty shores and shallow water to 30cm deep, in ponds, ditches and ungrazed marshland.

Found in most northern temperate regions, including Britain.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Root - cooked. A sweetish flavour. Stem base - cooked.

Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.

Stem: this often intergrades into leaves.

Medicine

Rating: 1

An infusion of the whole plant, mixed with other plant leaves, has been used in the treatment of chills.

Other

Rating: 0

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

How it is grown

Grows in muddy ground or water up to 30cm deep. Requires a rich soil. Tolerates some shade. Tolerates deep shade. An important autumn and winter food source for wild fowl.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a pot in the greenhouse. Stand the pots in 2 - 3cm of water. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and gradually increase the depth of water as the plants grow until it is about level with the tops of the pots. Plant them out in the summer if they have grown sufficiently, otherwise plant them out in the following spring. Division in spring or autumn. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found it best to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in a cold frame, planting them out once they are well established in the summer.

Best place to grow: Pond; Bog Garden;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Full shade, semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Wet, water

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

S. eurycarpum. S. ramosum.