Amphibious Bistort

Persicaria amphibia is a highly adaptable native British perennial that, as its name suggests, can grow both in water and on damp land. In its aquatic form, it produces floating, glossy, oblong leaves that provide excellent surface cover for wildlife. From mid-summer onwards, it sends up dense, attractive spikes of bright pink flowers that sit proudly above the water. These flowers are rich in nectar and are a magnet for bees and butterflies. When growing in the water, it spreads via submerged rhizomes and is very easy to establish. It is exceptionally hardy (H7) and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is particularly useful for larger, more naturalistic ponds or lakes where its ability to bridge the gap between water and bank can be utilized. In smaller garden ponds, it is best kept in a container to manage its spread.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Wet soil or water up to 45cm deep.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.