Baldellia ranunculoides

RHS Plant Profile
lesser water plantain

Other common names

dŵr-lyriad bychan

Synonyms

Alisma ranunculoides

Herbaceous Perennial Bogs Aquatic

A native, herbaceous perennial that grows at the edge of water. It has slender green leaves that form a small clump and small, delicate flowers with three pale lilac or white petals and a yellow centre are produced in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand, Chalk

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand Chalk
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral or Acid

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Alismataceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming, Submerged
Genus
A genus of just three species of aquatic plants found across large parts of Europe and the Mediterranean. The leaves are oval to lance-shaped and held above the water, whilst the flowers are small and pale lilac with a yellow eye
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe, N. Africa

How to Grow

Cultivation

A small, slow growing plant suitable for shallow water at the edge of a small pond, stream or a container water garden. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free