Sparganium erectum

Sparganium erectum (ramosum) is also known as Water bur-reed or Branched bur-reed, is a vigorous perennial herbaceous plant found in aquatic environments, on banks and in shallow water. It forms a clump of ribbon-like, erect, bright green leaves. The flowers and fruits are quite decorative in summer. This plant is commonly used in phytoremediation for its filtering and depolluting properties. It should be planted on a bank or submerged in up to 10 cm (4in) of water.

Sparganium erectum belongs to the family of bur-reeds. This cold-resistant, semi-aquatic perennial species is native to marshy areas from Europe to Asia in non-acidic wet soil and shallow waters. The branched bur-reed has strong trailing rhizomes that help stabilise the banks and soil along the edges of rivers and streams. Its vegetation is mostly deciduous, emerging from the ground in spring and driying up in winter. Its long, erect ribbon-like leaves are gathered in a dense clump about 1 m (3ft) high.  The water bur-reed flowers from June to September in branched inflorescences that bear separate male and female glomerules. The male glomerules are smaller and less decorative than the female ones. After wind pollination, the female glomerules transform into round fruits with a diameter of 1 cm (0in) covered in bristles. Each fruit releases 1 or 2 seeds that are dispersed by water.

Water bur-reed is very useful for aquatic ecosystems, for depolluting and soil-stabilising and its beneficial role to wildlife. Its vegetation provides food resources and valuable shelter for dragonflies, amphibians, fry, and birds. According to some studies, its rhizomes are capable of extracting certain pollutants such as heavy metals from the soil and water. Its root system is also known for its role in oxygenating the environment. Sparganium plays a pioneer plant role in preparing the ground for the establishment of woody plants such as alders, willows, and poplars.

Plant it with other wetland bank plants such as Purple knapweed with its beautiful purple flowers, fragrant sedge Cyperus longus, marsh spike-rush Eleocharis palustris, Marsh spurge or willowherbs, along the banks of a watercourse or natural pond.