Butomus umbellatus 'Schneeweisschen' - White Flowering Rush, Pond Plan

Butomus umbellatus 'Schneeweisschen' (also spelt 'Schneeweißchen') is a white-flowered form of the native flowering rush. It has very slender, twisted green leaves and, in June and July, rounded heads of white flowers held well above the foliage.

White flowering rush at a glance

Botanical name	Butomus umbellatus 'Schneeweisschen'
Common name	White flowering rush
Plant type	Rush-like perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread	Leaves about 60 cm; flower stems about 1 m. Spread up to 50 cm
Flowers	White, in rounded heads, June and July
Position	Full sun
Soil	Fertile mud or shallow water
Pond depth	5–25 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness	RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C)
Native to	Garden selection of a UK native species

Where to plant white flowering rush

Sunny pond shelves with 5–25 cm of water over the crown
Next to the pink flowering rush for a mixed planting
Formal and wildlife ponds alike

Is it good for wildlife?

Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list.

How to plant and care for it

Plant in an aquatic basket in spring or summer, in full sun. It needs root room, so move young plants into a 2–4 litre basket. Cut back old leaves in autumn. Watch for water lily aphid in summer.

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 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.