Native pond plants are those which grow naturally in the ponds, streams and rivers of the UK. They’re ideally suited to the British weather and perfect for attracting bees, butterflies, frogs and more. With beloved native marginal plants like Bulrushes and Flag Irises, submerged or floating plants and even Waterlilies, you can bring the classic look of the English countryside to your pond and benefit our environment at the same time. Give your pond the natural look with our native collection - the wildlife will love it as much as you do!
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Nestled amongst wildlife meadows and resident ducks, Caroline’s award winning pond plant nursery in Enfield has been making a splash since 1965, when they invented the (recycled, obvs) aquatic basket. Sixty years and multiple RHS gold medals later, they’re still surprising us with new varieties every year!
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Why choose native pond plants?
There are many reasons to choose native pond plants, including both wildlife appeal and aesthetic impact. Native pond plants are indigenous to the UK, and have shared an evolutionary pathway with the other wildlife found in British ponds. Aquatic environments are finely-tuned, and as such, it doesn’t take much to nudge this homeostasis out of balance. By using native pond plants, you’re more likely to keep that settled equilibrium between flora and fauna. It’s like baby bear’s po(nd)rridge – just right.
What are the best native pond plants?
Determining ‘the best’ of anything is always a bit subjective, but there are definitely native pond plants we’re particularly partial to here at Roots, including marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) and water crowfoot (Ranunculus aquatilis) on the flowering side of things, and water soldier (Stratiotes aloides), hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) and water violet (Hottonia palustris) on the foliage end. Honourable mentions also go to water avens (Geum rivale), ragged robin (Silene flos-cuculi) and purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).
Caring for native pond plants
Looking after native pond plants is much the same as any other pond plants. An application of aquatic fertiliser during spring can help your plants flourish and remain healthy. Plant your native pond plants in aquatic baskets to help keep them nice and secure (bog/marsh plants can be planted straight into the ground). Prune back marginals (like yellow flag iris – Iris pseudacorus) in winter, cutting back to healthy, green foliage. Thin out any plants that have become overcrowded, as they may take over your pond if you’re not careful.
