Mazus reptans - Creeping Mazus, Pond Edge & Border Plant

Mazus reptans, known as creeping mazus or Chinese marshflower, is a low, creeping plant that forms a mat of small, bright green, toothed leaves. In late spring and early summer it is dotted with small lilac to purple-blue flowers marked with yellow and white.

Creeping mazus at a glance

Botanical name	Mazus reptans
Common name	Creeping mazus, Chinese marshflower
Plant type	Low, creeping, semi-evergreen perennial
Height and spread	About 5–10 cm tall, up to 50 cm wide
Flowers	Small, lilac to purple-blue, marked yellow and white, May and June
Position	Full sun or part shade
Soil	Moist soil; any type and pH
Pond depth	None – moist soil at the pond edge
Hardiness	RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C)
Native to	Himalaya and China (not UK native)

Is creeping mazus a pond plant?

Not really. The RHS treats it as ground cover for rock gardens, patios and containers. One nursery says it tolerates very shallow water, but it is safest in moist soil at the pond edge or in a bog garden, not under water.

Where to plant it

Moist ground at the edge of a pond
Between paving stones and on rockeries
The front of damp borders and pots

How to plant and care for it

Plant in spring in moist soil. It spreads to form a mat. Watch for slugs and snails.

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.