Hydrocharis morsus-ranae
Frogbit
Also known as Hydrocharis 'Morsus Ranae'
- Height × spread
- 0.03m × 0.5m
- Position
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
Like a miniature water lily, frogbit has round or kidney shaped bronzed green leaves that float flat on the surface during summer. In July and August short stalks hold its three petalled white flowers with golden centres. There are male and female forms: males in clusters of two or three flowers, whilst the female flowers occur singly. This plant likes still chalky water and is often found growing with reeds and irises in the wild. It stands around 3cm (1in) high with a 50cm (20in) spread.
- Flower colour
- White
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Prostrate
- Height
- 0.03m
- Spread
- 0.5m
- Evergreen
- Deciduous
- Garden style
- Water garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- Alkaline
- Drainage
- Any
- Hardiness
- Colder than -20C (RHS H7)
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Water depth
- Floats
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring · Outdoors
Feed with aquatic plant food
As the plant is grown in water, feed with an aquatic feed as directed on the packet. Do not exceed the amounts given as this can affect the water.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water frequently to keep the soil moist
The plant thrives in moist or boggy soil, doesn't tolerate dryness and should be watered frequently, not only after a period of drought, but if the soil begins to dry out spring to autumn. Check plants in pots more frequently, especially in hot weather.
Planting & general
Compost · Planting
Compost for aquatic plants
Use aquatic plant compost for pond plants (other composts contain nitrates that cause problems in ponds). Pond plants are generally planted in baskets and weighted to keep in position.