Alisma lancelot - Narrow-Leaved Water Plantain, Native Pond Marginal P

Alisma lanceolatum (sold as Alisma lancelot), known as narrow-leaved water-plantain, is a UK native marginal plant with slender, lance-shaped leaves. From June to August it sends up branching sprays of small pale pink to lilac flowers, which open in the morning.

Narrow-leaved water-plantain at a glance

Botanical name	Alisma lanceolatum
Common name	Narrow-leaved water-plantain
Plant type	Clump-forming perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread	About 70 cm tall in flower, about 25 cm wide
Flowers	Small, pale pink to lilac (sometimes white), June to August
Position	Full sun or part shade
Soil	Wet clay, loam or sand; any pH
Pond depth	0–15 cm of water over the crown (up to 30 cm)
Hardiness	RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to	UK and Ireland (native wild flower)

How is it different from common water-plantain?

Its leaves are much narrower and lance-shaped rather than oval. Both are native and suit wildlife ponds.

Is it good for wildlife?

Yes. The tall stems give emerging dragonflies somewhere to climb, and birds and small mammals eat the seed heads if they are left over winter.

Does it self-seed?

Yes. Cut off the flower heads after flowering if you do not want seedlings around the pond.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.