Butomus umbellatus 'Schneeweisschen' (also spelt 'Schneeweißchen') is a white-flowered form of the native flowering rush. It has very slender, twisted green leaves and, in June and July, rounded heads of white flowers held well above the foliage.

White flowering rush at a glance

Botanical name Butomus umbellatus 'Schneeweisschen'
Common name White flowering rush
Plant type Rush-like perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread Leaves about 60 cm; flower stems about 1 m. Spread up to 50 cm
Flowers White, in rounded heads, June and July
Position Full sun
Soil Fertile mud or shallow water
Pond depth 5–25 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C)
Native to Garden selection of a UK native species

Where to plant white flowering rush

  • Sunny pond shelves with 5–25 cm of water over the crown
  • Next to the pink flowering rush for a mixed planting
  • Formal and wildlife ponds alike

Is it good for wildlife?

Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list.

How to plant and care for it

Plant in an aquatic basket in spring or summer, in full sun. It needs root room, so move young plants into a 2–4 litre basket. Cut back old leaves in autumn. Watch for water lily aphid in summer.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 5 - 25cm

Light: Full sun

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 80 - 120cm tall, 30 - 50cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

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