Pickerel weed (Pontederia cordata), also known as pickerel rush, is a hardy aquatic perennial that adds color, height, and natural beauty to ponds and water gardens. It produces attractive purple-blue flower spikes, with pink and white varieties also available.
Pickerel weed is especially suitable for planting along pond edges and shallow planting shelves.
Benefits of pickerel weed
- Attracts pollinators: Flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Provides fish cover: Dense foliage creates shaded areas where pond fish can seek shelter.
- Adds visual interest: Upright flower spikes and glossy, arrow-shaped leaves complement other aquatic plants.
- Supports wildlife: The plant provides habitat for aquatic insects and other pond wildlife.
Ideal growing conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
- Water depth: Shallow water, approximately 3–5 in. (8–13 cm) deep, is suitable for container planting.
- Height: Typically reaches 2–3 ft (61–91 cm), although plants may grow taller under favorable conditions.
- Hardiness: USDA zones 3–10.
- Location: Pond edges, shallow planting shelves, bog gardens, and consistently wet areas.
How to plant pickerel weed
- Place the pickerel weed in an aquatic fabric planter to help manage its spreading roots.
- Fill the planter with aquatic pond potting media.
- Add aquatic plant fertilizer according to the manufacturer's directions.
- Cover the potting media with a thin layer of gravel to help keep it in place.
- Position the planter on a shallow pond shelf in approximately 3–5 in. (8–13 cm) of water.
- Choose a location receiving full sun to partial shade.
Maintaining pickerel weed
Pickerel weed requires minimal maintenance once established. However, it spreads quickly and should be monitored to prevent overcrowding.
- Remove faded flowers and damaged leaves as needed.
- Trim stems that bend or fall into the pond.
- Divide overcrowded plants to maintain healthy growth.
- Keep pickerel weed in a container to help control root expansion.
- Allow established plants to regrow naturally in spring after winter dormancy.
Pickerel weed is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add colorful flowers, attract pollinators, and create a more natural pond environment.