Menyanthes trifoliata (Marginal Aquatic)
Menyanthes trifoliata, commonly known as bogbean, is a UK native aquatic perennial offering attractive flowers and foliage. Thriving in shallow ponds, marshes, and bog gardens, it adds both visual appeal and ecological value to water features.From April to June, bogbean produces elegant spikes of star-shaped white flowers with fringed petals, often tinged with pink, rising above the water on stems up to 30cm tall. These feathery blooms are not only visually striking but also provide an early source of food for pollinators. The plant’s trifoliate, olive-green leaves resemble those of broad beans, contributing to its common name.Bogbean’s creeping rhizomes form floating mats that provide excellent surface cover, offering shelter for aquatic invertebrates and supporting biodiversity. Its presence can enhance habitats for dragonflies and damselflies, as they use the stems for perching and laying eggs. Water depth: 0-25cm. Ultimate height: 20cm to 30cm (8 to 12in). Ultimate spread: 1.5m (4.9ft).
