Overview
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' is a perennial herb in the genus Scrophularia, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' grows best in partial shade and full sun, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. Suggested uses include water gardens, pond edges and moist borders.
About
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' is a perennial herb in the figwort family with variegated leaves that mark it out at pond margins. It favours consistently moist, well-drained soil and will take both partial shade and full sun. Flowering occurs from June to September. It is suited to water gardens, pond edges and moist borders.
About the genus
The genus Scrophularia of the family Scrophulariaceae comprises about 200 species of herbaceous flowering plants commonly known as figworts. Species of Scrophularia all share square stems, opposite leaves and open two-lipped flowers forming clusters at the end of their stems.
In the garden
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' belongs to the Scrophularia genus within the Scrophulariaceae and is a perennial herb valued for its variegated foliage at waterside sites. The cultivar form is typically used where leaf contrast is needed at the edge of ponds or in damp planting schemes. Plant in soil that stays moist yet drains freely; the plant prefers moist, well-drained conditions rather than dry or compacted substrates. Position it where it will receive partial shade to full sun—morning sun with afternoon shelter suits many UK settings. Keep soil consistently damp during establishment and avoid planting in dry, drought-prone ground. Use Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' at pond edges, in water gardens and moist borders where its foliage remains visible through the summer flowering season. Expect blooms from June to September, which coincide with its most active growth period at the water’s edge. The variegated leaves also help to pick out the plant among other marginal and bog species.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Scrophularia
- Sunlight
- partial shade, full sun
- Soil type
- moist, well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- water gardens, pond edges, moist borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist soil and partial shade; avoid dry conditions.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage growth.
- Propagation
- division, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata'?
Prefers moist soil and partial shade; avoid dry conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata'?
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' prefers partial shade and full sun.
What soil does Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' need?
Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata' grows best in moist and well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage growth.
How do I propagate Scrophularia aquatica 'Variegata'?
Division, seed.