Bog Bean

Bog Bean flowers (Menyanthes trifoliata) have always been a feature of the pond in Charlton Down Nature Area. They prefer shallower water and were originally confined to the small boggier area of the old pond. Then, as the pond gradually dried up, they invaded the larger part of the pond and took it over almost completely. Some of the stems and roots were saved and put in the new pond and once again they are starting to flower but this time as part of a floating raft of vegetation. If you look closely at the white flowers you will see that the petals are beautifully “fringed”.