Water Fringe, Yellow floatingheart

Nymphoides peltata

Physical Characteristics

Nymphoides peltata is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to Spain, N. and W. Asia to Japan.

Habitats

Pond;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Leaves and leaf stems - cooked as a potherb[2, 178, 179, 183]. The interior of the stem is eaten, it is highly esteemed[145, 178]. The leaves are not very palatable[K]. Flower buds - cooked as a potherb[105, 183]. Seed[178]. No further details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Diuretic Febrifuge Galactogogue Skin Anthelmintic, diuretic, febrifuge, galactogogue, skin. The fresh leaves are used in the treatment of periodic headaches[145, 178, 240]. The plant is diuretic, febrifuge and refrigerant[218]. It is bruised and used in the treatment of burns, fevers, ulcers, snake bites and swellings[218]. The plant contains rutin, but no details are given of the quantity[218].

Known Hazards

None known