Myriophyllum crispatum

RHS Plant Profile
upright water milfoil
Aquatic

A deciduous aquatic plant for shallow water with feathery, whorled bright green foliage on crispy stems above the water and small red flowers from June to July. Although similar in looks to Myriophyllum aquaticum (which is banned under schedule 9 UK Wildlife and Countryside act as an invasive, non-native species), this aquatic plant is much less prolific and provides oxygenation for ponds

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Haloragaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Submerged
Genus
Myriophyllum can be submerged or marginal aquatic rhizomatous perennials, with finely dissected submerged leaves and small or minute flowers, solitary or in spikes from the leaf axils
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in baskets of loamy soil in shallow water to a depth of 20cm in full sun. Apply a suitable feed once a year in late spring. See pond plants for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by cuttings of root segments

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Cut back regularly to avoid excessive growth

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free