Swordleaf Rush | Juncus ensifolius

Key Characteristics:

• Height 15cm to 30cm
• Spread: up to 30cm (Slow Growth)
• Depth: 0cm to 5cm
• Flower Colour: Green-brown seed heads
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming, grass-like perennial
• Foliage: Narrow, upright, sword-shaped green leaves

Additional Information:

• Common Name: Flying Hedgehogs, Swordleaf Rush
• Position: Full Sun/Part Shade
• Soil: Moist to wet, suitable for boggy soils and pond margins
• Flowering Period: June to August
• Hardiness: Hardy in UK; tolerates -20°C to -15°C. (H6)
• Loved by Amphibians 🐸

Dispatch Information:

• Normally Available From: April

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: Place plant on marginal shelf at required depth. Allow 5 x 1L plants per linear metre or 3 x 3L plants per linear metre.

Growing Tips: Flying Hedgehogs thrive in consistently moist to shallow water conditions and perform best in full sun to partial shade. Keep the plant in its aquatic baskets for easy management in smaller ponds, or let it naturalise in larger water features for a more relaxed appearance. Its tidy, clump-forming habit makes it particularly suited for garden ponds, where it adds subtle height and texture.

Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged foliage in early spring to encourage fresh, healthy growth. Trim back seed heads in late autumn if desired, though they add winter interest.

Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-free and disease-resistant, though slugs may nibble on new shoots in very damp conditions. Monitor water quality to maintain plant health.

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.

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.

Ordering Tip!

Many customers prefer to place two separate orders when ordering early in the season.

1. One for plants available now.
2. One for pre-order plants.

This ensures there are no delays, and you can enjoy your ready now plants sooner.

Read More about pre-orders

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Shipping Prices

Plant Orders:

• Standard Delivery: £6.00.
• Large Orders (e.g., 30L Waterlilies): Pallet delivery, cost based on weight and postcode (email for a quote).

Highlands & Islands:

• Small Orders (<1.8kg): £6.00.
• 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, Republic of Ireland or Europe.

Read More about delivery prices

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Couriers & Delivery Schedule

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

Shipping Schedule

• Aquatic Plants: Dispatch Schedule varies dependant on season.
• Garden Plants: Dispatched twice weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays. 

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

 

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Returns

Unpacking Your Plants

When your plants arrive, please unpack them carefully:

• Plants are packed in protective plastic bags. Check if any stems, leaves, or flowers are stuck to the inside of the bag before removing it.
• Gently peel off any stuck parts before removing the plant to prevent damage.
• Minor soil displacement or damage to leaves/stems during transit is normal and won’t affect the plant’s recovery.

If you’re concerned about your plants, take photos and email us, and we’ll assist you.

Damaged or Incorrect Items

If your plants or items arrive damaged, or you’ve received an incorrect item:

1. Take clear photos of the packaging and damaged items.
2. Email us with your order number (starting PFP) and the photos.

We’ll resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Returns of Plants/Molluscs (Non-Faulty)

Due to the perishable nature of plants and molluscs, we are unable to accept cancellations or returns for these items. If you are unhappy with your plant or mollusc, please take photos and email us with your order number (starting PFP).

For more details about returns and our full policy, please visit our Returns Policy