Our Friend – Pickerel Rush

Don’t let the name of this plant fool you! Pickerel Rush (or weed) has showy purple (or pink or white) flower spikes and is a great plant for the pond. It blooms from June to October and is hardy in zones 3 to 10.

Grown in full sun to part shade it offers sweet nectar that attracts butterflies and bees! They can grow up to 3 feet tall, so placement on the back side of the pond is best so the view from the sitting area isn’t blocked.

They can’t tolerate full shade and should be planted in heavy, rich soil. Adding top soil to potting mix works well. The pot should be placed so that the soil line is just at water level or a little above it.

Fish love to hang out under the leaves that will surely float on top of the water and dragonflies love it too!