How to Grow Pickerel Weed
Pontederia cordata
Pickerel Weed is a native marginal aquatic perennial with striking spikes of blue-violet flowers from June to September and glossy, heart-shaped leaves. Plant at pond margins in up to 15 cm of water, or in permanently wet soil. It spreads steadily by rhizomes — divide every 3-4 years in spring to keep it in check. Excellent for wildlife ponds as it attracts bees and other pollinators in large numbers.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Rarely needed. The pond or wet soil provides sufficient nutrients. Avoid fertilising directly into water as it encourages algae.
Watch For
- Water snails damaging foliage
- Aphids on flower spikes
Companions
Yellow Flag Iris, Marsh Marigold, Water Forget-Me-Not
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Flowering is best in an open, sunny position.
Watering
Aquatic — grow in up to 15 cm of water
Plant at pond margins or in permanently wet soil. Tolerates standing water up to 15 cm deep. Never allow to dry out.
Fertilizing
No feeding required
Nutrients from pond water or wet soil are sufficient. Feeding encourages algal growth and is not recommended.
Pruning
Cut back in late autumn or early spring
Remove dead foliage in late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges. Leave seed heads for wildlife if possible.
Growing Tips
Plant at the water's edge
Grow in up to 15 cm of standing water at pond margins, or in permanently waterlogged soil. Containers submerged in the pond work well for control.
Leave seed heads for wildlife
After flowering, the seed heads provide food for wildfowl. Leave them standing until early spring before cutting back.
Divide to control spread
Lift and divide congested rhizomes every 3-4 years in spring. This keeps the plant vigorous and prevents it from crowding out other marginals.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Mature height | 90 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Marginal aquatic perennial. Plant at pond margins in up to 15 cm of water or in consistently wet soil. Space 60 cm apart to allow full spread.
