Menyanthes trifoliata, known as bogbean, is a UK native with three-part leaves held above the water on creeping stems. From April to June it carries star-shaped white flowers, pink in bud, with unusual fringed, hairy petals.

Bogbean at a glance

Botanical name Menyanthes trifoliata
Common name Bogbean, buckbean
Plant type Creeping perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread 20–25 cm tall, spreading 1–1.5 m
Flowers White, pink in bud, with fringed petals, April to June
Position Full sun or part shade (flowers best in sun)
Soil Shallow water or muddy margins; acid to neutral
Pond depth 2–10 cm of water over the crown (tolerates up to 25 cm)
Hardiness RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to UK and Ireland (native wild flower)

Where to plant bogbean

  • Shallow water at the pond edge, 2–10 cm deep
  • Where its creeping stems can scramble out over the water and hide the edge
  • Wildlife ponds and bog pools

Is bogbean good for wildlife?

Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list and is suggested by the RHS for wildlife gardens.

When does bogbean flower?

From April to June. The flower buds form the year before, so new plants may not flower until their second spring.

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: 2 - 10cm

Light: Full sun or part shade

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 20 - 40cm tall, 100cm+ 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.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

Processing Time:
Orders are processed within 1 - 3 business day after payment confirmation. Orders placed on weekends or public holidays will be processed the next business day.

Shipping Methods:

  • Standard Shipping (1-3 days)
  • Express Shipping (1-2 days)

Should you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, feel free to contact us.