Saururus cernuus
swamp lily
A marginal aquatic perennial, with deep green, heart-shaped leaves and curving spikes of tiny fragrant white flowers
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Saururaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Saururus are marginal aquatic herbaceous perennials with long-stalked, ovate leaves, heart-shaped at the base, and very small, fragrant white flowers in a slender nodding raceme in late summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eastern N America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in boggy ground or pond margins in full sun or partial shade in water no deeper than 10cm. Divide regularly to maintain vigour. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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