Lesser bulrush (Typha angustifolia)

Photo: Carl Axel Magnus Lindman, Public domain · source

Pruning guide · Water or marginal plant

Lesser bulrush: when and how to prune

Typha angustifolia

Lesser bulrush is best pruned in March.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch
FloweringJune–August
Good for bees, butterflies and birdsYes, for birds
Native to BelgiumYes

Lesser bulrush: when to prune it?

In March, before the new shoots appear. Leave leaves and heads standing over winter.

What else to prune in those months? March

Lesser bulrush: how to prune it?

  1. Cut the old, brown stems and leaves off above the water surface, not below it.
  2. Remove leaves that fall into the water in autumn earlier, so they do not rot on the bottom.
  3. Cut off the heads in autumn if you want to avoid the fluff spreading seeds everywhere.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.

Caution: Do not cut too late in March: the new shoots grow fast and break easily.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Lesser bulrush · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…