A vigorous rush-like plant with branched spikes of greenish- brown flowers in late-summer followed by prickly, teasel-like brown fruit. Branched burr read is best planted in the shallow margins of a wildlife pond. Avoid using with flexible pond liners since they're at risk of damage from the plant's sharply pointed rhizomes.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Depth of water: 0-45cm (0-18in)
• Rate of growth: fast-growing
• Flowering period: August
• Flower colour: greenish-brown
• Other features: bright-green, strap-like leaves
• Hardiness: fully hardy

• Garden care: Leave the faded foliage over winter to provide shelter for wildlife. In spring remove the faded foliage and divide congested colonies
• Goes well with: Caltha palustris, Juncus effusus f. 'Spiralis', Iris laevigata 'Snowdrift', Aruncus dioicus, Rodgersia aesculifolia, Schoenoplectus lacustris