A native submerged oxygenating aquatic with long ribbon-like leaves that sway in the current. Valuable for keeping pond water clear and providing habitat for fish.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 70 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Eelweed
Botanically, Vallisneria australis is an fast-growing aquatic plant in the Hydrocharitaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 70 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Eelweed
Eelweed suits subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Eelweed does best in sandy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Eelweed is wet or boggy ground. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Eelweed in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Eelweed in the garden
Eelweed earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Eelweed with other plants that enjoy the same wet or boggy ground and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Eelweed
Plant Sale lists Eelweed as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.