Butomus umbellatus
Swan's-boat
Common names: Water lily, Water vine
Photo: Christian Fischer · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
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Description
Butomus umbellatus, commonly known as Swan's-boat, is a native shoreline perennial suited for the shallow-water zone of a garden pond. It produces reed-like, tapering leaves that extend into long stems, which open into panicle-like inflorescences: numerous individual pink to light‑pink flowers cluster together like a small fireworks display. From June to August it reliably attracts bees and hoverflies. The plant grows in dense clumps in shallow water and is winter hardy; its roots survive frost as long as they remain below the ice line.
Care instructions
Plant in baskets filled with loamy pond soil and position 5–20 cm below the water surface. It prefers full sun and still to gently flowing water; at shaded sites flowering is noticeably weaker. Trim wilted flower stems just above the waterline to keep the clump compact and encourage new shoots. Divide the plant every three to four years in spring when new growth appears to maintain vigor and prolific blooming. In winter leave it in place as long as the root ball stays frost‑free in the water; no additional protection is needed.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
moist, nutrient-rich, loamy, clayey
Feeding
Medium feeder
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