Luronium natans
floating water plantain
A spreading, floating, marginal pond plant, native to the UK, but rare, preferring shallow water and boggy areas over mud. It has small, oval, dark green floating leaves in shallow water and narrower, longer leaves in deep water. Small, three-petalled white flowers with yellow centres appear from May to July. Recommended water depth over the crown - 5-10cm (2-4 inches). Can be grown up to a depth of 4m. Suitable for smaller ponds
Size
Time to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Alismataceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Floating, Spreading branched
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in clean, still or gently moving water in bright, indirect light. When planting in growing media, use a nutrient-rich, peat-free mix suitable for aquatic plants. Keep clear of algae, blanketweed or other plants which may crowd out and prevent the Luranium from absorbing light and nutrients. Also thrives in indoor aquariums. See pond plants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in soil which is kept constantly moist, ideally in shallow water, in spring or early summer. Seeds may take several weeks to several months to germinate. Division can be a more reliable way of propagating. Divide healthy, mature plants, ensuring each has a healthy root system, and plant in a similar environment to the parent plant. See pond plant propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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