These plants are submerged under the water, grown on a marginal shelf, or grown around the edges of the pond. They provide oxygen and cover for secretive wildlife.

Examples:

• • Spiked Watermilfoil. Prefers ‘hard water’ and produces feathery green underwater stems, and flowers above the surface. This plant has a high nutrient uptake, helping to balance any excess nutrients which can lead to poor water quality. 
  • Curly Pondweed. Some flowers above the surface. Crinkly, fine leaves along the stem can act as a filter for suspended particles, leading to improved water quality. 
  • Hornwort. Oxygenating plant with dense branches, providing cover for aquatic creatures such as Tadpoles. Brittle but easy to anchor again and is great for both smaller and larger ponds. 
  • Water Starwort. Delicate in appearance, pale-green plants can cope with seasonal drought. It can also reproduce quickly, which makes it great for stabilising new ponds.