{"product_id":"pontederia-cordata-alba-white-pickerel-weed-marginal-pond-plants-mp093","title":"Pontederia cordata ‘Alba’ (White pickerel weed) - Marginal Pond Plants - MP093","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/strong\u003e, commonly known as \u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e, is a beautiful cultivar of \u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata\u003c\/em\u003e (Pickerel Weed) that features striking white flowers instead of the typical purple or blue blooms. Native to North America, this perennial aquatic plant is ideal for water gardens, ponds, and wetland landscapes where its tall, elegant flower spikes and lush foliage can add texture and visual interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDescription\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e typically grows to a height of 60–90 cm (24–36 inches), with large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) long. The leaves are deep green and glossy, providing a vibrant backdrop to the plant's flowers. These leaves are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant, and the stems are upright and sturdy, rising above the water to showcase the plant's blooms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn late spring to early summer (typically May to July), \u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e produces tall flower spikes that can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length. Unlike the typical purple or blue flowers of the species, the flowers of \u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e are pure white with a subtle fragrance. The white flowers are small, tubular, and arranged in dense, cylindrical clusters at the top of the plant’s stems, creating a striking contrast against the deep green foliage. The plant's flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It can grow in shallow water up to 30 cm (12 inches) deep, making it an ideal plant for pond edges, marshes, and wetland gardens. The plant tolerates a range of soil types, including nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral pH soils, and is particularly suited to environments with consistent moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardy in the UK, \u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e can tolerate frost and will regrow in the spring after winter dormancy. It is well-suited for water gardens or natural pond settings, adding both aesthetic and ecological value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePropagation and Care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e is typically propagated by division or from seed. The plant spreads through rhizomes, and division is an effective way to propagate it while maintaining the health of the plant. Division should be done in spring or early autumn to avoid disturbing the plant's growth during the blooming season. Seeds can also be sown in spring, though division is a quicker method for creating new plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce established, \u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e is relatively low-maintenance but may require occasional thinning to prevent overcrowding in smaller garden spaces. Regular division helps manage its growth, and removing spent flowers can encourage additional blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e is an excellent choice for water gardens, ponds, and bog gardens. The plant's tall, elegant flower spikes and contrasting white blooms make it an attractive focal point in any aquatic setting. It works well as a specimen plant or in groupings to create dramatic clusters of white flowers. The large, heart-shaped leaves add texture and fill in spaces around ponds and water features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to its ornamental value, \u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e can be used for erosion control along water margins, as its dense root system helps stabilize soil and reduce runoff in wetland or pond environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEcological Value\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/em\u003e provides several ecological benefits in water gardens and wetland environments. Its dense root system stabilizes soil along water margins, reducing erosion and preventing soil runoff. The plant’s flowers attract pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local biodiversity. Additionally, \u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients from the surrounding soil and water, preventing the overgrowth of algae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dense foliage also provides shelter for small aquatic creatures, insects, and amphibians, contributing to the health and biodiversity of the aquatic ecosystem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eConsiderations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile \u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant, it can spread rapidly via rhizomes and self-seeding. Regular division and monitoring are recommended to prevent it from becoming too invasive in smaller garden spaces. It is best to plant it in areas where it has ample space to grow or contained environments such as large containers or pond beds with barriers to control its spread.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its striking white flowers, graceful foliage, and versatility, \u003cem\u003ePontederia cordata 'Alba'\u003c\/em\u003e is an excellent addition to water gardens, ponds, and wetland landscapes. Its ability to attract pollinators, improve water quality, and provide shelter for aquatic life makes it a valuable plant for enhancing the beauty and ecological health of aquatic environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Choose Pontederia cordata ‘Alba’ (White Pickerel Weed)?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePontederia cordata ‘Alba’\u003c\/strong\u003e, commonly known as \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Pickerel Weed\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a stunning and unique variety of the traditional \u003cstrong\u003ePickerel Weed\u003c\/strong\u003e. Known for its \u003cstrong\u003epure white flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eheart-shaped green leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e, this plant adds elegance and sophistication to any \u003cstrong\u003ewater garden\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003epond\u003c\/strong\u003e, or \u003cstrong\u003ewetland landscape\u003c\/strong\u003e. It is perfect for those who desire the beauty of pickerel weed but with a more subtle, refined look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Elegant White Flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures \u003cstrong\u003epure white flower spikes\u003c\/strong\u003e that emerge in \u003cstrong\u003elate spring to early summer\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe flowers are \u003cstrong\u003edelicate and beautiful\u003c\/strong\u003e, creating a soft, elegant contrast to the green foliage, making it a unique choice compared to the more common violet-blue flowered varieties.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttracts \u003cstrong\u003epollinators\u003c\/strong\u003e, including \u003cstrong\u003ebees\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ebutterflies\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003ehummingbirds\u003c\/strong\u003e, contributing to the biodiversity of your garden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Thrives in Wet and Moist Conditions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for \u003cstrong\u003eshallow water\u003c\/strong\u003e (up to 30cm\/12 inches deep) or \u003cstrong\u003emoist soil\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it perfect for planting along \u003cstrong\u003epond edges\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ebog gardens\u003c\/strong\u003e, or \u003cstrong\u003emarshes\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerforms well in \u003cstrong\u003efull sun\u003c\/strong\u003e to \u003cstrong\u003epartial shade\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering flexibility for different planting locations while still producing vibrant blooms.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. Heart-Shaped, Glossy Green Leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures \u003cstrong\u003eheart-shaped leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e that are large, glossy, and dark green, providing a rich backdrop for the white flowers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe leaves add a soft, tropical feel to the garden, with a dense, upright growth habit that complements other aquatic plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. Hardy and Low Maintenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePontederia cordata ‘Alba’\u003c\/strong\u003e is a \u003cstrong\u003ehardy perennial\u003c\/strong\u003e that tolerates fluctuating water levels and seasonal flooding, making it ideal for a variety of wetland environments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnce established, this plant requires minimal maintenance, making it a reliable, low-care choice for water gardeners.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5. Wildlife-Friendly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ewhite flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e attract \u003cstrong\u003epollinators\u003c\/strong\u003e, such as \u003cstrong\u003ebees\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003ebutterflies\u003c\/strong\u003e, helping to support a healthy, diverse ecosystem.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIts dense foliage provides \u003cstrong\u003eshelter\u003c\/strong\u003e for small aquatic creatures, such as amphibians and insects, supporting the overall health of your pond or wetland garden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6. Erosion Control and Water Filtration\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe plant’s \u003cstrong\u003edense root system\u003c\/strong\u003e helps \u003cstrong\u003estabilize soil\u003c\/strong\u003e, preventing erosion along pond banks and wetland areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt also contributes to \u003cstrong\u003ewater filtration\u003c\/strong\u003e, helping to absorb excess nutrients and improve water quality in your aquatic environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7. Versatile Design Use\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerfect for \u003cstrong\u003ewater gardens\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003epond edges\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003ewetland landscapes\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its elegant white flowers and glossy green leaves can serve as a focal point or provide a complementary backdrop to other plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorks beautifully in \u003cstrong\u003enaturalistic plantings\u003c\/strong\u003e or formal designs, adding a graceful touch to any wetland area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 60–90cm (2–3 feet)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers\u003c\/strong\u003e: Pure white flower spikes, blooming from late spring to early summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil\u003c\/strong\u003e: Moist to wet soil or shallow water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight\u003c\/strong\u003e: Full sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePontederia cordata ‘Alba’ (White Pickerel Weed)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a beautiful and graceful addition to any wetland or water garden. Its pure white flowers, heart-shaped leaves, and ability to thrive in wet conditions make it an excellent choice for creating an elegant and wildlife-friendly aquatic landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Lincspplants","offers":[{"title":"1 \/ 7cm","offer_id":56445007692153,"sku":"MP093-plug","price":2.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 \/ 9cm","offer_id":56445007724921,"sku":"MP093-9cm","price":6.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 9cm Potted","offer_id":56445007757689,"sku":"MP093-9cmpot","price":8.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 1Ltr","offer_id":56445007790457,"sku":"MP093-1ltr","price":10.72,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 1Ltr Potted","offer_id":56445007823225,"sku":"MP093-1ltrpot","price":12.67,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 3Ltr","offer_id":56445007855993,"sku":"MP093-3ltr","price":19.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 3Ltr Potted","offer_id":56445007888761,"sku":"MP093-3ltrpot","price":23.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 \/ 2 x Pot \u0026 2 x Compost","offer_id":56629586133369,"sku":"MP093-2xpot-2xcompost","price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 \/ 7cm","offer_id":56717253214585,"sku":"sku-52451525001563","price":7.41,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 \/ 9cm","offer_id":56717253247353,"sku":"sku-52451525034331","price":19.38,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 \/ 1Ltr","offer_id":56717253280121,"sku":"sku-52451525067099","price":30.55,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 \/ 3Ltr","offer_id":56717253312889,"sku":"sku-52451525099867","price":55.58,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0966\/8263\/9737\/files\/Pontederia-cordata-Alba-01-scaled.jpg?v=1767532386","url":"https:\/\/mgmgardening.com\/products\/pontederia-cordata-alba-white-pickerel-weed-marginal-pond-plants-mp093","provider":"MGMgardening","version":"1.0","type":"link"}