Waterplantain (Baldellia): A European Pond Plant for Water Gardens
If you’re looking to add some aquatic charm to your water garden or pond, you might have come across waterplantain (Baldellia). This modest little perennial brings a touch of European elegance to water features, though as a non-native species, it’s worth understanding what you’re getting into before adding it to your landscape.
What is Waterplantain?
Waterplantain is a small aquatic perennial that’s native to Europe, particularly Mediterranean regions. Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t your typical garden-variety plantain. This little water-lover belongs to an entirely different plant family and has made itself at home in scattered locations across North America, including Washington state and Newfoundland.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
In North America, Baldellia has established itself in Washington and Newfoundland, where it reproduces spontaneously in the wild. While it’s considered non-native, it has shown the ability to persist and spread without human intervention in these regions.
What Does It Look Like?
Waterplantain is a pretty understated plant that won’t win any showiest flower contests. It features:
- Simple, grass-like leaves that emerge from the water or wet soil
- Small white flowers that appear on delicate stems
- A low-growing, spreading habit perfect for pond margins
- A generally neat, tidy appearance that doesn’t overwhelm other plantings
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re thinking about growing waterplantain, here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Water requirements: Shallow water or consistently moist to wet soil
- Light needs: Full sun to partial shade
- USDA zones: Generally hardy in zones 6-9
- Soil type: Adaptable, but prefers muddy or sandy conditions
Perfect for Water Features
Waterplantain works beautifully in:
- Pond margins and edges
- Bog gardens
- Rain gardens with standing water
- Container water gardens
- Natural swimming pool plantings
Its modest size and tidy growth habit make it an excellent choice for smaller water features where you want plant interest without overwhelming the space.
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While waterplantain’s small white flowers do attract some aquatic insects and pollinators, its wildlife value is relatively modest compared to native alternatives.
Should You Plant It?
Here’s the thing about waterplantain – while it’s not considered invasive or problematic, it is a non-native species. If you’re committed to supporting local ecosystems, you might want to consider native alternatives that provide similar aesthetic appeal but greater ecological benefits.
Native Alternatives to Consider
Before settling on Baldellia, consider these native waterplantain alternatives:
- American waterplantain (Alisma subcordatum): A true native with similar growth habits and white flowers
- Arrowhead (Sagittaria species): Gorgeous native aquatics with distinctive arrow-shaped leaves
- Water parsnip (Sium suave): Another native option for wet areas with delicate white flower clusters
The Bottom Line
Waterplantain is a perfectly pleasant little aquatic plant that can add subtle beauty to water features. While it’s not native to North America, it’s also not considered problematic in most areas. If you choose to grow it, you’ll find it’s relatively low-maintenance and well-behaved. However, if you’re passionate about supporting native wildlife and local ecosystems, consider exploring the many beautiful native alternatives that can provide similar aesthetic appeal with greater ecological benefits.
Whatever you choose, your water garden will benefit from the gentle presence of aquatic plants that help create a more natural, balanced ecosystem around your pond or water feature.
