Water plant to cover piping and decorate bottom of waterfall

by Eric F
(Chicago, IL)

What water plants (of any depth) would grow well near the base of a moderate to small waterfall (in a moderate current), but also help conceal flitration piping?

Doug says that most of the shallow-water plants (many of the broad-leafed tropicals are perfect for this) would do well in this kind of situation. Pot them up and then overwinter them indoors.

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Water plant to cover piping and decorate bottom of waterfall

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Follow up
by: Eric F

I did go with the Illustris (or Imperial Taro). It looks great and seems to be thriving in the water (at least so far). I purchased them at around 8 inches in height, with some established leaves, and some new growth at the bottom. Certainly young plants, but went ahead and submerged them about 6 inches under the water line and with some excellent sun (even in their partly shaded area) over the last weekend, they have begun to shoot up with multiple new leaves. Looks like they should do nicely. Thanks again for the advice.

Great idea
by: Eric F

I checked out that Illustris and it might be perfect. Conflicting responses to how well it can handle the water, but seems that enough places (and you) show proof that it can.

Broadleaf plant for Water Garden near Waterfall
by: Michelle

I overwinter elephant ears and as a result have a large number of excess bulbs each year. For the past 4 years I have potted them up in heavy black 1 or 2 gallon plastic pots with heavy garden soil and then topped the pots with 2'' tumbled stones. After the leaves are about 12" high (from sitting in a saucer in the sun) I sink the pots in the pond (2 to 3 feet depths) near the waterfalls. "Ilustris" does especially well. Doesn't mind the moving water at all. Put some larger stones aroundthe pot in the water, to keep the pots upright.

Thank you
by: Eric F

Thank you. Also happy to take any specific recommendations if anyone has any favorites for a great look, flowering, or especially easier to care for (from that shallow water tropical broad leaf family).

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Doug Green