Oenanthe fistulosa
tubular water dropwort
A wetland perennial, ranging in height from 20cm to almost 1m, with pinnate, slightly grey-green leaves divided into lobed and toothed leaflets. Flat to dome-shaped clusters of tiny white flowers are borne on tall, hollow stems from mid summer to early autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Oenanthe are perennials with a preference for damp ground, marshes or water. Hollow stems are shiny and can grow up to 2m tall. Leaves are triangular, shiny and bright green and flowers are arranged in small white clusters. Brown, rugby-shaped seeds follow the flowers.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in moist soil, with shelter from cold, drying winds. Suitable for a bog garden, as a marginal or as ground cover alongside streams or in areas prone to flooding
Propagation
Propagate by division in late spring, as growth begins, or by softwood cuttings in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
Deadhead if seed is not required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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