Creating a pond is much more than just adding water and a few fish: it's about recreating a true natural ecosystem . At Aquishop , we select the native aquatic plants best suited to our climate — robust, decorative species that are also beneficial to the health of your pond.
Discover our guide to choosing the varieties that will make your pond balanced, oxygenated, and visually irresistible . 🌸 These plants are available at our aquatic nursery in Nodebais.
💧 Why favour native plants?
Native aquatic plants are local species perfectly acclimatized to our environment. They are more resistant to temperature variations, support local biodiversity, and naturally limit algae by filtering nutrients.
👉 By choosing native species, you promote a sustainable pond, simpler to maintain and respectful of nature.
🌱 The major families of aquatic plants you should know
🌿 1. Border and marsh plants
They stabilize the riverbanks and provide shelter and food for local wildlife.
Some must-sees:
-
Marsh marigold ( Caltha palustris ) – bright yellow flowers in spring
-
Iris pseudacorus – majestic yellow iris typical of wetlands
-
Carex acutiformis, Carex riparia, Juncus effusus – robust grasses for structuring riverbanks
-
Lythrum salicaria – purple loosestrife, loved by bees and butterflies
-
Mentha aquatica – water mint with a fresh and pervasive scent (to be controlled)
💡 Aquishop tip : alternate dense foliage and colorful blooms for a natural and balanced pond edge.
🌾 2. Submerged oxygenating plants
They purify the water and reduce the proliferation of filamentous algae.
Our favorites:
-
Ceratophyllum demersum – the ceratophyllum, champion of oxygenation
-
Myriophyllum spicatum – fine-leaved plant, perfect shelter for fry
-
Potamogeton natans, Potamogeton lucens – graceful foliage and essential purifying role
These plants are true “green lungs” for your pond.
🌸 3. Floating plants
They decorate the surface, provide shade, and shelter aquatic life.
Examples:
-
Hydrocharis morsus-ranae – small frog with white flowers
-
Nymphoides peltata – round leaves and bright yellow flowers
-
Stratiotes aloides – a hardy floating plant with rosette-shaped foliage
🌼 4. Iconic plants: water lilies
Water lilies (Nymphaea) and water lilies (Nuphar luteum) are the stars of ponds. Their floating flowers create a peaceful atmosphere and offer refuge to fish.
On Aquishop, you will find a wide selection of water lilies — from pure white to deep red — suitable for small and large ponds.
Each variety is carefully cultivated by our partner European growers.
🌾 5. Background and large plants
They structure the landscape and add verticality:
-
Arundo donax (giant reed)
-
Phragmites australis (common reed)
-
Butomus umbellatus (flowering rush, elegant pink flowers)
-
Equisetum fluviatile (water horsetail, with a graphic appearance)
These plants attract birds and enhance the feeling of wild nature.
🪴 Create a complete ecosystem
For a lasting balance, combine:
-
1/3 oxygenating plants
-
1/3 surface plants (floating plants, water lilies)
-
1/3 of border plants
This distribution ensures clear water, healthy fish, and thriving biodiversity.
🛒 Discover our selection on Aquishop
Find it on Aquishop.com all varieties of native aquatic plants :
-
oxygenating plants ready to plant
-
marsh plants in pots or baskets
-
water lilies cultivated in Belgium and the Netherlands
-
Planting and care advice offered by our experts 🌱
Each plant is carefully prepared before shipping to ensure optimal growth in your pond .
🌿 In summary
Native plants are not just decorative: they bring your pond to life .
By choosing suitable local species, you create a haven for wildlife and plants while simplifying maintenance.
👉 Explore our complete collection of aquatic plants on Aquishop and transform your garden into a living ecosystem.
