Bogbean - Menyanthes trifoliata, species information page

Bogbean - Menyanthes trifoliata leaf photo, click for a larger photo

Bogbean - Menyanthes trifoliata habit photo, click for a larger photo

Bogbean - Menyanthes trifoliata
Family - Menyanthaceae

Aquatic perennial growing to 30cm (12in) from thick creeping rhizomes. Found in damp soil, marshes, bogs, fens, ditches, ponds and in standing or slow flowing water. Locally common and widespread in the UK especially Ireland and Scotland. Nearly sessile leaves are trifoliate and resemble leaves of the Broad Bean. Clusters of Pink / White fringed flowers of 5 lobes on erect leafless stems appear from March to June. Dried leaves were used in the past to make a tea which is said to relieve headaches and migraine. It is listed as a National Surveillance Plant Pest in New Zealand.

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