A marginal aquatic with broad lance-shaped emergent leaves and whorled spikes of small white flowers. Note this species is a declared weed in parts of southern Australia.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 70 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Arrowhead
Sagittaria platyphylla is a fast-growing aquatic plant in the Alismataceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Arrowhead
Arrowhead suits subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Arrowhead does best in clay soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Arrowhead is adapted to wet or boggy ground. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Arrowhead after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Arrowhead in the garden
Arrowhead earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same wet or boggy ground and subtropical climate as Arrowhead. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Arrowhead
Plant Sale lists Arrowhead as potted plants. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
