Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flowering rush on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Butomaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Flowering rush
The 'Butomus umbellatus', commonly known as Flowering Rush or Water Gladiolus, is a beautiful perennial aquatic plant that produces umbels of pink flowers on tall stems. Its sword-shaped leaves and showy blooms make it ideal for ponds, stream banks, or water gardens, adding an ornamental and natural touch.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
This plant thrives in shallow water (up to 30 cm deep) or permanently moist, boggy soil, in full sun to partial shade. It prefers nutrient-rich substrates, such as loam or clay. It is crucial to prevent the soil from drying out completely, as it is an aquatic plant and lack of moisture is its main enemy.
How to save a dying Flowering rush
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or brown, non-erect leaves. Lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Ensure constant water level (10-20 cm). Check for rich, clayey substrate. Place in full sun.
- What kills it
- Drought (even brief), excessive shade, poor substrate or lack of nutrients.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted. It's very resilient if given its aquatic conditions.