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.