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 a 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Eelweed is adapted to wet or boggy ground. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
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
Combine Eelweed with plants that share its preference for wet or boggy ground and subtropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Eelweed
Plant Sale lists Eelweed as potted plants. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
