Hornwort | Ceratophyllum demersum

Key Characteristics:

• Depth: 30cm to 150cm
• Growth Rate: Medium
• Foliage: Fine, thread-like, spiky leaves
• Growth Habit: Submerged, free-floating, bushy mats

Additional Information:

• Common Name: Hornwort
• Position: Full Sun/Part Shade
• Flowering Period: May to July
• Hardiness: Hardy in most UK areas; tolerates -15°C to -10°C. (H5)

UK Native 🇬🇧 | Loved by Amphibians 🐸

Dispatch Information:

• Normally Available From: April/May

Your bunched oxygenating plants will arrive in a bag, ready to be popped straight into you pond upon arrival!

Each pack contains 5 weighted bunches, providing coverage for 2.5sqm

Growing Instructions: Hornwort is a free-floating plant that requires no planting or substrate. Simply pop it into the water, and it will naturally find its own level, floating or sinking depending on the conditions.

Hornwort thrives in still or slow-moving water and can grow at depths up to 1.5m.

Growing Tips: Oxygenators thrive in clear water, where sunlight supports photosynthesis and boosts oxygen release into your pond.

Pruning: Remove excess growth as needed, and place the cut foliage at the pond’s edge for 24 hours. This gives any pond life, such as insects or amphibians, time to safely return to the water.

Pests/Diseases: Rarely affected by pests and diseases.

Why Are Bunched Oxygenators So Important?

Bunched oxygenators play a crucial role in keeping your pond healthy and thriving. They release oxygen into the water through photosynthesis, which is essential for fish, amphibians, and other pond life to survive. By absorbing excess nutrients like nitrates, they help prevent algae growth, keeping the water clearer.

Clear water allows more sunlight to reach the plants, boosting oxygen production and creating the perfect environment for pond life. These plants also provide shelter for fish, newts, and insects, making them a vital addition to any garden or wildlife pond.

What is the difference between Bunched Oxygenators and Deep Potted Oxygenators?

Potted oxygenators sit a little higher in the water and often have more varied foliage and leaf shapes, making them brilliant for providing cover for spawning amphibians and shelter for froglets. Some varieties can even form a lovely carpet on the pond floor, adding texture and interest.

You don’t always need both—it depends on your pond’s size and style (and what you fancy). That said, we think they make a great team, each bringing their own benefits to your pond.

How Deep Should I Place My Bunched Oxygenators?

The planting depth for bunched oxygenators depends on the variety, so it’s always best to check the product page.

How Many Bunched Oxygenators Do I Need?

Oxygenators are vital for releasing oxygen into your pond and keeping the water clear by absorbing excess nutrients and nitrates. We recommend adding 2 to 3 bunches per square metre for the best results. A pack of 5 bunches is enough to cover around 2.5sqm.

Can I Mix Varieties of Bunched Oxygenators In My Pond?

Yes, you can mix varieties of bunched oxygenators in your pond! We recommend placing them in different areas to give each space to grow. Over time, one variety may dominate, especially in smaller ponds, but this is natural and depends on the conditions in your pond. A mix still provides excellent benefits for oxygenation and biodiversity.

Will Carp or Ducks Eat My Bunched Oxygenators?

Carp (inc. Koi): These fish love pond plants and often find oxygenators irresistible! If you have carp, we recommend protecting your plants with barriers to prevent them from being eaten.

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 oxygenators while diving for food or foraging in the pond.

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.

1. One for plants available now.
2. One for pre-order plants.

This ensures there are no delays, and you can enjoy your ready now plants sooner.

Read More about pre-orders

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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

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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

 

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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:

1. Take clear photos of the packaging and damaged items.
2. 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