Plant, Tree & Shrub Library

Other Names:  Botswana Wonder, Large Leaf Sensitive Plant

Description:

Leaves on this aquatic plant will gracefully close when touched; perfect for moist to wet pond edges, and will even grow free floating; pretty yellow pea like flowers stand out over the symmetrical compound foliage in mid summer

Ornamental Features

Giant Water Sensitive Plant features showy yellow pea-like flowers rising above the foliage from mid summer to early fall. Its attractive oval compound leaves remain grayish green in color throughout the season. The brick red stems can be quite attractive.

Landscape Attributes

Giant Water Sensitive Plant is an herbaceous perennial with a low habit of growth, spreading atop the surface of the water. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should not require much pruning, except when necessary, such as to remove dieback. It is a good choice for attracting bees and butterflies to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Giant Water Sensitive Plant is ideally suited for growing in a pond, water garden or patio water container, and is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• General Garden Use
• Water Gardens
• Container Planting
• Bog Gardens

Planting & Growing

Giant Water Sensitive Plant will grow to be about 10 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 10 inches. Its foliage tends to remain low and dense right to the water. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 5 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. As an aquatic plant, it requires a suitable water garden environment and will benefit from special planting and ongoing care practices; consult one of our in-store experts for further details and instructions. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is not originally from North America. It can be propagated by cuttings.

Giant Water Sensitive Plant is a fine choice for the water garden, but it is also a good selection for planting in outdoor pots and containers. Because of its spreading habit of growth, it is ideally suited for use as a 'spiller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the edges where it can spill gracefully over the pot. Note that when grown in outdoor pots and containers, aquatic plants like this one will require a special growing environment that meets their requirement for consistent moisture. Be aware that in our climate, most plants cannot be expected to survive the winter if left in containers outdoors, and this plant is no exception. Contact our experts for more information on how to protect it over the winter months.