Bog Bean | Menyanthes trifoliata
Bog Bean has clover-like leaves and pretty white, fringed flowers; ideal for large ponds and lakes.
SAVE £10 when you buy 1ltr - Pack of 3
Normally Available From: May
The Bog Bean (Menyanthes trifoliata) is a vigorous native aquatic perennial, perfect for large ponds, lakes, and natural landscaping projects. From April to June, it produces delicate white, star-shaped flowers with fringed petals tinged with pink, attracting bees and other pollinators. Its trifoliate, olive-green leaves provide excellent surface coverage, offering shelter for aquatic wildlife such as amphibians and aiding in algae control. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, this hardy plant is a valuable choice for enhancing both the ecological balance and visual appeal of larger water features.
Not suitable for small ponds due to its vigorous growth habit.
Caution: All parts of Menyanthes trifoliata are toxic if ingested.
Key Characteristics:
- Height 20cm to 30cm
- Spread: Up to 1m (Fast Growth)
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Depth: 1cm to 20cm
- Flower Colour: White with pink tinges
- Growth Habit: Vigorous, creeping rhizomatous perennial
- Foliage: Trifoliate, olive-green leaves
Additional Information:
- Common Name: Bog Bean, Buckbean, Marsh Trefoil
- Position: Full Sun/Part Shade
- Soil: Moist to wet, suitable for pond margins and boggy soils
- Flowering Period: April to June
- Hardiness: Hardy in the UK; tolerates temperatures down to -20°C. (H7)
- UK Native • Pollinator Friendly
We grow with the seasons - strong plants take time, so dispatch dates may shift slightly with the British weather.
Your Plant At Arrival
Your marginal plant will arrive in a Finofil Aquatic Basket, pre-planted with aquatic soil and a slow-release fertiliser. Just pop straight into you pond upon arrival!
Aquatic Basket Measurements:
- 1ltr - Square pot (11cm wide by 11cm high)
- 3ltr - Hexagonal pot (18cm wide x 16cm high)
- 5ltr - Square pot (24cm wide x 14cm high)
- 9cm plants arrive in solid pots and will need repotting into aquatic baskets.
How to Grow
- Growing Instructions:
- Growing Tips:
Care & Maintenance
- Pruning: Remove spent flowers and dead foliage after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage fresh growth. Trim back excessive growth in early spring to prevent overcrowding.
- Pests/Diseases: Typically unaffected by pests or diseases; watch for powdery mildew in dry conditions.
Marginals - Good to Know
How Deep Should I Place My Marginals?
The planting depth depends on the variety. Check the product page or the care label included with your plant for specific guidance.
Depth is measured from the top of the pot to the water’s surface.
Most marginals are fine placed 1cm to 2cm under the waterline, just enough to hide the aquatic basket.
How Many Marginals Do I Need?
Measure the length of your marginal shelves and then allow:
- 1ltr Plants: 5 per linear metre
- 3ltr Plants: 3 per linear metre
Tip: Leave space between plant varieties to prevent dominant species from taking over. For more details, see our Planting Guide.
Do I Need to Line My Basket with Hessian?
No, Finofil aquatic baskets are designed with a fine mesh that prevents soil loss. Adding a liner is optional but not necessary.
What Are Finofil Baskets Made From?
Finofil aquatic baskets are made from 100% recycled plastic and manufactured in the UK. They can be recycled at local recycling centres or through kerbside collections that accept black plastic. Plant labels are also recyclable.
Will Carp or Ducks Eat My Plants?
Carp (inc. Koi): These fish find pond plants irresistible! If you have carp, we recommend protecting your plants with barriers.
Goldfish: Goldfish may nibble on oxygenators and softer plants but generally cause less damage. They also eat insects, larvae, and tadpoles.
Wildfowl: Ducks and other birds may eat plants or damage roots while nesting. Mature plants with strong root systems are more resilient, but consider protecting roots/rhizomes for added security.
Ordering, Shipping & Returns
What is a Pre-Order?
Pre-ordering reserves a plant that is still growing and not yet ready to ship. Payment is taken at checkout to secure your plant, and shipping happens once the plant is well-rooted and ready.
Ordering Tip!
Many customers prefer to place two separate orders when ordering early in the season.
- One for plants available now.
- One for pre-order plants.
This ensures there are no delays, and you can enjoy your ready now plants sooner.
Shipping Prices
Plant Orders:
- Standard Delivery: £6.00.
- Large Orders (e.g., 30L Waterlilies): Pallet delivery, cost based on weight and postcode (email for a quote).
Highlands & Islands:
- Small Orders (<1.8kg): £6.00.
- Standard Orders (>1.8kg): £25.00.
Soil & Gravel:
Additional charges for multiple bags may apply. Email for a quote if not calculated at checkout.
Container Ponds:
Shipping starts at £30. Prices are calculated at checkout.
Note: We cannot currently ship to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland or Europe.
Read More about delivery prices
Couriers & Delivery Schedule
Couriers Used:
Royal Mail, APC, DX and Parcel Force, and Pallet Delivery services (for large orders and 30L plants).
Shipping Schedule
- Aquatic Plants: Dispatch Schedule varies dependant on season.
- Garden Plants: Dispatched twice weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays.
If you need any help, please email us - info@plantsforponds.co.uk
Returns
Unpacking Your Plants
When your plants arrive, please unpack them carefully:
- Plants are packed in protective plastic bags. Check if any stems, leaves, or flowers are stuck to the inside of the bag before removing it.
- Gently peel off any stuck parts before removing the plant to prevent damage.
- Minor soil displacement or damage to leaves/stems during transit is normal and won’t affect the plant’s recovery.
If you’re concerned about your plants, take photos and email us, and we’ll assist you.
Damaged or Incorrect Items
If your plants or items arrive damaged, or you’ve received an incorrect item:
- Take clear photos of the packaging and damaged items.
- Email us with your order number (starting PFP) and the photos.
We’ll resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Returns of Plants/Molluscs (Non-Faulty)
Due to the perishable nature of plants and molluscs, we are unable to accept cancellations or returns for these items. If you are unhappy with your plant or mollusc, please take photos and email us with your order number (starting PFP).
For more details about returns and our full policy, please visit our Returns Policy
Plants Delivered with Care Across the UK
Based in Hertfordshire, we ship plants across the UK, ensuring they reach you in tip-top condition to enhance your pond with vibrant, healthy greenery. Supporting a small, local business like ours means getting a personal touch – no big teams, no call centres, just real, knowledgeable help from people who care.
