Saturday, August 28, 2010

Water Poppy

Having a shady pond typically means you have a limited selection of water plants - especially if you want flowers.  Many years ago, before the trees filled in, I actually had water lilies.  But as the shade increased, the blossoms dwindled and then ceased all together (and then even the pads diminished).

But Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) has been a happy substitute.


It likely would also be even happier with additional sunlight, but does well with mostly dappled shade and occasional direct rays.  I would never recommend mixing it with water lilies as the Water Poppy tends to sprawl and will also lift its leaves above the water (likely burying water lilies).


The pale yellow blossoms are not nearly as large or showy as those of water lilies, but are much appreciated in a darker pond setting.


The plant has always been left in the pond bottom over the winter and though it will, of course, die back with the freezes, it has always come back and slowly covered the water surface.


For those with a dappled shade pond, Water Poppy might be just what you need.


Planted in Pots:
Haworthia attenuata: Placed into another converted mosquito candle pot.

4 comments:

  1. What a sweet buttercup-like bloom. I'm not familiar with water poppy, but I like it.

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  2. Thank you for the reminder. I think I first saw this on one of your bloomday posts? Like most people I need to see things a couple of times before they really sink in and stick.

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  3. Cool! I didn't realize there was a blooming water plant that tolerates shade. I need to get one of these. I have a tiny backyard fountain/pond with a lily. It gets part sun and hasn't been doing too well. Where did you get your water poppies? I wonder if Water Garden Gems in San Antonio carries them. Thanks for the education and inspiration.

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  4. danger: It was included on both the July & August GBBD postings - so obviously it likes the heat!

    Abbey: Years back, I purchased mine from Hill Country Water Gardens & Nursery in Cedar Park, TX. Their staff recommended it for my pond conditions (I'm sure they still carry it).

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