Aponogeton
Aponogeton distachyos
Aponogeton distachyos, known as Water Hawthorn, is a charming aquatic perennial with floating leaves and fragrant white flowers. Native to South Africa, it blooms in cool seasons and is prized for ponds and water gardens.
Aponogetonaceae
Cool seasons: spring and autumn (March-May, September-November); winter in mild climates; dormant in summer
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: lily (true lily)s and desert lilys also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Water Hawthorn has been cultivated in Europe since the 17th century and is beloved for blooming when water lilies are dormant, providing interest in spring and autumn. The fragrant white flowers have a sweet hawthorn or vanilla scent. In South Africa, it's both an ornamental and a food crop - the edible flowers called "waterblommetjies" are used in traditional stews. The plant symbolizes purity and tranquility in water gardens, and its seasonal blooming pattern represents renewal and the changing seasons.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; flowers best in full sun but tolerates light shade
Water
Must be grown in water 6-36 inches deep (15-90 cm); thrives in cool water temperatures below 70°F (21°C)
Soil
Aquatic mud or loamy pond soil, Rich in organic matter, Submerged at 6-36 inches depth
Expert Growing Tips
Plant tubers in spring in aquatic baskets filled with loamy soil
Submerge baskets at 12-24 inches depth (30-60 cm)
Prefers cool water temperatures; goes dormant in hot summers
Blooms twice yearly - spring and autumn in temperate climates
Deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding
Can become invasive through self-seeding in warm winter climates
May be grown in containers placed on pond bottom
In cold climates, move containers deeper or indoors for winter
Fragrant flowers have hawthorn or vanilla scent
Divide rhizomes in spring if clumps become congested
WARNING: Listed as invasive in some regions (e.g., Republic of Ireland)
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Pond and water garden plantings
- Aquatic containers and tubs
- Cool-season pond interest
- Companion to water lilies (blooms when lilies are dormant)
- Fragrant water features
- Wildlife pond plantings
Traditional Uses
- Flowers and young shoots are edible and popular in South African cuisine
- Flowers sold commercially canned as "waterblommetjies" in South Africa
- Young shoots used as asparagus substitute
- Stems with high water content traditionally used to soothe burns and sunburn
- Tubers are edible and starchy, added to stews
- Considered a delicacy in Germany where flowers are canned and sold
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Aponogeton
when does water hawthorn bloom
Water Hawthorn blooms during cool seasons - typically spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in temperate climates, going dormant during hot summer months.
is aponogeton invasive
Aponogeton can be invasive in warm winter climates through self-seeding — it's listed on Schedule 9 in the Republic of Ireland as an invasive non-native species, so check local regulations.
can you eat water hawthorn
Yes, Water Hawthorn flowers, young shoots, and tubers are edible — the flowers are a delicacy in South Africa (called waterblommetjies) and are sold commercially canned.
what depth should water hawthorn be planted
Plant Water Hawthorn at depths of 12-36 inches (30-90 cm), though it tolerates 6-24 inches — place tubers in aquatic baskets on the pond bottom or in mud.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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