Butomus umbellatus is one of the most handsome of perennial marginal water plants.Open umbels of fragrant, pink, bi-coloured, nectar-rich flowers form clusters atop strong stems in summer and early autumn, much to the delight of local pollinators. Narrow, slightly twisted, grass-like foliage is 3-cornered, and emerges with red tinges in spring. Contrasting beautifully with often more rounded pond foliage it is equally spectacular and happy grown in pots with a horticultural saucer beneath to retain the moisture. Known as Flowering Rush, Butomus umbellatus has been given the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society for outstanding garden performance.Butomus umbellatus prefers to be grown in moist soil, happy in water between 5-45cm deep and in a sunny spot. Reaching a mature height of 1.2m and spreading to 90cm this rhizomatous perennial has an RHS hardiness rating of H5 so is hardy to around -15 C. Dying back in the winter, it will re-spout again in spring.
Flower and Foliage Months
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Flowering Month