©Mick E Talbot

Water figwort

Water figwort is a tall plant of riverbanks, pond margins, damp meadows and wet woodlands. Its maroon flowers are pollinated by the Common wasp.

Scientific name

Scrophularia auriculata

When to see

June to September

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 1m

Conservation status

Common.

Habitats

About

Water figwort is a common plant of riverbanks, pond margins, damp meadows and wet woodlands. Its maroon flowers appear from June to September, provide nectar for bumblebees, and are pollinated by the Common wasp.

How to identify

Water figwort has reddish, square stems and pointed, toothed leaves that are evergreen. Its flowers are deep maroon with two lips, and conspicuous green sepals that have brown edges; they are held in branches off the main stem and appear in whorls.

Distribution

Found throughout the UK, but scarcer in Scotland.

Did you know?

Many emergent wetland plants, such as Water Figwort, provide resting places for aquatic insects, such as Caddis flies and Alder flies.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way.