Description
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.
