Mud Plantain

Mud Plantain is a perennial aquatic plant well-suited for water margins and boggy conditions. It typically reaches heights of 1 to 3 feet and spreads through rhizomes to form dense colonies. The leaves are large and heart-shaped, often rising above the water's surface on long, sturdy stalks. From mid to late summer, it produces airy, branched stalks of small, star-shaped white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers give way to small, flat seeds that are spread by water and provide food for waterfowl and other aquatic animals. Mud plantain thrives in shallow water or muddy banks, making it ideal for naturalizing in ponds, rain gardens, and along streambeds.

• Requires consistent moisture or shallow standing water; ideal for areas that are naturally wet.
• Trim back spent flower stalks in the fall to maintain tidiness and prevent excessive self-seeding.
• Prefers muddy, nutrient-rich soils; tolerant of varying water levels.
• Monitor for aquatic pests and diseases; generally robust but may require management in densely planted areas to ensure healthy airflow and prevent mildew.