Water violet Hottonia palustris

Grows with its leaves entirely under (or just floating on) the water surface, and only the flower spikes standing up above it. The submerged leaves are comprised of multiple rosettes of soft feather-like fronds, while the flowers are white or pale pink with a yellow centre.

Widespread in the east, midlands and south-east of England. Found in ponds, ditches, and the slow flowing backwaters of some rivers. In Norfolk, it can be found in the unpolluted pools of the Brecks at NWT Thompson Common and Cranberry Rough.

May to June

• Plantlife :: Water-violet
• Freshwater Habitats Trust - Water Violet

Water violets are able to withstand summer drought, but cannot survive permanent drainage. Supporting conservation organisations, such as the NWT, which protect wetland habitats, can help to ensure habitat specialists, like the water violet, are able to thrive. Please submit details of any water violets seen in Norfolk to Norfolk Biodiversity Information Service www.nbis.org.uk.