Common Bulrush | Typha latifolia

Key Characteristics:

• Height 2m to 2.4m
• Spread: Rapidly spreading rhizomes; highly invasive
• Depth: 1cm to 40cm
• Flower Colour: Brown cylindrical flower spikes
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing, clump-forming reed with creeping rhizomes
• Foliage: Tall, strap-like green leaves up to 2.5 m tall

Additional Information:

• Common Name: Common Bulrush, Reedmace, Broadleaf Cattail
• Position: Full Sun/Part Shade
• Soil: Moist to wet; suitable for expansive ponds, lakes, and wetland margins
• Flowering Period: June to September
• Hardiness: Extremely hardy; tolerates below -20°C. (H7)
• Normally Available From: April
• UK Native 🇬🇧 | Wildfowl Friendly 🦆

Your marginal plant will arrive in a Finofil Aquatic Basket, pre-planted with aquatic soil and a slow-release fertiliser. Just pop straight into you pond upon arrival!

Aquatic Basket Measurements:

• 1ltr - Square pot (11cm wide by 11cm high)
• 3ltr - Hexagonal pot (18cm wide x 16cm high)
• 5ltr - Square pot (24cm wide x 14cm high)
  
• 9cm plants arrive in solid pots and will need repotting into aquatic baskets.

Growing Instructions: Plant in moist or waterlogged soil at a depth of 10–50 cm. Allow ample space for the plant to spread naturally. Typha latifolia is highly vigorous and best suited to large open wetlands, lakesides, or filter beds.

Growing Tips: Common Bulrush thrives in large-scale projects where its fast growth can be an advantage rather than a problem. It is particularly effective for stabilising wetland margins and preventing erosion, thanks to its dense, creeping rhizomes. However, it is not suitable for small ponds or confined spaces, as its robust roots can damage pond liners and overwhelm smaller plants. To maintain a healthy balance in naturalised areas, its growth should be carefully monitored, and clumps should be thinned out regularly in managed wetlands to prevent it from dominating other species.

Pruning: Cut back old foliage and flower spikes in late autumn or winter to tidy up planting areas and encourage fresh growth. Thin out rhizomes every few years in large planting schemes to prevent overcrowding.

Pests/Diseases: Typha latifolia is rarely affected by pests or diseases due to its vigorous nature. However, its dense foliage can provide a breeding ground for certain insects, which can be beneficial in attracting wetland predators like dragonflies.

How Deep Should I Place My Marginals?

The planting depth depends on the variety. Check the product page or the care label included with your plant for specific guidance.

Depth is measured from the top of the pot to the water’s surface.

Most marginals are fine placed 1cm to 2cm under the waterline, just enough to hide the aquatic basket.

How Many Marginals Do I Need?

Measure the length of your marginal shelves and then allow:

• 1ltr Plants: 5 per linear metre
• 3ltr Plants: 3 per linear metre

Tip: Leave space between plant varieties to prevent dominant species from taking over. For more details, see our Planting Guide.

Do I Need to Line My Basket with Hessian?

No, Finofil aquatic baskets are designed with a fine mesh that prevents soil loss. Adding a liner is optional but not necessary.

What Are Finofil Baskets Made From?

Finofil aquatic baskets are made from 100% recycled plastic and manufactured in the UK. They can be recycled at local recycling centres or through kerbside collections that accept black plastic. Plant labels are also recyclable.

Will Carp or Ducks Eat My Plants?

Carp (inc. Koi): These fish find pond plants irresistible! If you have carp, we recommend protecting your plants with barriers.

Goldfish: Goldfish may nibble on oxygenators and softer plants but generally cause less damage. They also eat insects, larvae, and tadpoles.

Wildfowl: Ducks and other birds may eat plants or damage roots while nesting. Mature plants with strong root systems are more resilient, but consider protecting roots/rhizomes for added security.

Pre-Order Information

What is a Pre-Order?
Pre-ordering reserves a plant that is still growing and not yet ready to ship. Payment is taken at checkout to secure your plant, and shipping happens once the plant is well-rooted and ready.

Benefits of Pre-Ordering:

• Secure popular plants before they sell out.
• Receive healthy, pond-ready plants straight from the grower.

Plant Availability:
Plants are released in phases:

• Phase 1 (March–April): Ships by late April (e.g., Water Hawthorn, Marsh Marigold).
• Phase 2 (May): Ships by late May (e.g., Loosestrife, Frogbit).
• Phase 3 (June): Ships by late June (e.g., Pickerel Weed).

Note: Orders with pre-order and ready-to-ship plants will be shipped together. To avoid delays, place separate orders.

Read More about pre-orders

Shipping Prices

Plant Orders:

• Standard Delivery: £5.00.
• Large Orders (e.g., 30L Waterlilies): Pallet delivery, cost based on weight and postcode (email for a quote).

Highlands & Islands:

• Small Orders (<1.8kg): £5.00.
• Standard Orders (>1.8kg): £25.00.

Soil & Gravel:
Additional charges for multiple bags may apply. Email for a quote if not calculated at checkout.

Container Ponds:
Shipping starts at £30. Prices are calculated at checkout.

Note: We cannot currently ship to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland due to regulations.

Read More about delivery prices

Couriers & Delivery Schedule

Couriers Used:
Royal Mail, APC, Parcel Force, and Pallet Delivery services (for large orders and 30L plants).

Current Shipping Schedule:

• Season: Autumn/Winter (October–February).
• Dispatch Days: Weekly on Tuesdays.

Orders with pre-order plants will be held until all items are ready to ship.

If you need any help, please email us - info@plantsforponds.co.uk