New Pickerel Rush

New Pickerel Rush (Pontederia paniculata). From the British Guiana and related to the North American species but far more outstanding. The heart shaped foliage is dark, waxy green and is taller than the native variety. The flowers resemble our native Pickerel Rush except that there are two shades of color in the petals-light and dark violet blue. Several florets open as the previous ones close, thus giving a long flowering time to the spikes. Note: With the abundance of flowers and growth, this plant requires much nourishment and must be planted in plenty of rich soil or fertilized often during the season. Prohibited in FL.