Oenanthe
Water dropwort, Dead man's fingers
- Height × spread
- 0.2m – 0.2m × 0.6m – 0.6m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
There are around 30 species of these perennial, generally creeping plants. It is best known for the colourful form Oenanthe javanica 'Flamingo' that has attractive variegated foliage. A few other varieties are available for domestic cultivation. They have attractively cut foliage which reflects the fact that they belong to the same plant family as cow parsley and celery. The likeness continues in the aromatic properties of the foliage, which is edible in some forms. These plants are used both in water and in boggy or marshy positions. They are used to filter water when grown within ornamental ponds. Some forms can be invasive when conditions are to their liking and are best grown in containers. They are tough plants and can accommodate ice and cold, or may be over-wintered in a frost-free area.
- Flower colour
- White
- Foliage colour
- Green, Pink, White
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Dome
- Height
- 0.2m – 0.2m
- Spread
- 0.6m – 0.6m
- Season of interest
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Water garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, tolerates part shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, most are hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- 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 - late · Outdoors
Feed with slow release fertiliser
Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.
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.
Spring - late · Planting
Divide when too large
When the plant is too large clumps may be divided into two or more pieces. Rhizomes can be cut, whilst small bulbs or offsets are detached. The new plants can be grown in a container or planted in the ground.