If you have a back yard water feature, consider adding aquatic plants to not only enhance the look of your pond, but many plants provide beneficial nutrients and oxygen. We asked local landscapers to share their favorite aquatic plants.

Water Lilies

"Tropical or hardy water lilies are a must for your pond or water feature.  Not only do water lilies bloom all summer long, they also provide shade and protection for your fish and help keep the pond water clean." David Sherwood, Sherwood’s Forest.

Water Hyacinth

“The Water Hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes) is an easy-to- grow, free-floating plant. The delicate, purple flowers bloom throughout the season and add a pleasing splash of color to the pond. They are great for surface coverage and algae elimination. They also provide a protection from predators for koi and other fish. A vigorous reproducer, it is important to remove excess growth as needed.”  Jim Graeler, Chesterfield Valley Nursery.

Lion King Japanese Iris, Iris Ensata

“The Lion King Japanese Iris, Iris ensata, is absolutely exquisite! Nothing less could describe the incredible show of this Japanese iris. These majestic plants grow to a stately height of 4 feet and are topped with gigantic 8-inch flowers. Fully double, and much larger than the species, each ruffled petal displays a wide, grape purple edge that feathers into the pure white center. During the growing season, it thrives in standing water.” Ann Lapides, Sugar Creek Gardens.

Water Marigold

“Water Marigold is an attractive water-garden plant with bright green, half-dollar sized foliage with lovely flowers that stand up above the foliage and bloom from morning to afternoon. The foliage sits flat against the water making them ideal resting spots for frogs. Water Marigolds are a hardy, non-invasive choice for your water garden.” Julie Evans Straatmann, Passiglia’s Nursery & Garden Center.