Menyanthes trifoliata - Bogbean, Native Pond Marginal Plant

Menyanthes trifoliata, known as bogbean, is a UK native with three-part leaves held above the water on creeping stems. From April to June it carries star-shaped white flowers, pink in bud, with unusual fringed, hairy petals.

Bogbean at a glance

Botanical name	Menyanthes trifoliata
Common name	Bogbean, buckbean
Plant type	Creeping perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread	20–25 cm tall, spreading 1–1.5 m
Flowers	White, pink in bud, with fringed petals, April to June
Position	Full sun or part shade (flowers best in sun)
Soil	Shallow water or muddy margins; acid to neutral
Pond depth	2–10 cm of water over the crown (tolerates up to 25 cm)
Hardiness	RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to	UK and Ireland (native wild flower)

Where to plant bogbean

Shallow water at the pond edge, 2–10 cm deep
Where its creeping stems can scramble out over the water and hide the edge
Wildlife ponds and bog pools

Is bogbean good for wildlife?

Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list and is suggested by the RHS for wildlife gardens.

When does bogbean flower?

From April to June. The flower buds form the year before, so new plants may not flower until their second spring.

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.