Lapwing flower | A striking bicolored marsh plant
The lapwing flower also called Frittilaria meleagris, is a bulbous plant that blooms in spring with striking, bicolored flowers in shades of white and purple-pink and belongs to the water lily family. The marsh plant grows mainly on moist, calcareous soil and is found in the Netherlands mainly in grasslands and along water sides.
All about the lapwing flower
- Lapwing flower and Emperor's crown, colorful spring bloomers
- How long does a lapwing flower bloom?
- Disadvantages of the lapwing flower
- Alternative to the lapwing flower
Lapwing flower and Emperor's crown, colorful spring bloomers
The lapwing flower and imperial crown are both bulbous plants that bloom in spring. The lapwing flower has striking, bicolored flowers in shades of white and purple-pink, while the imperial crown has large, brightly colored flowers in shades of yellow, orange or red. Both aquatic plants grow best in moist, well-drained soil and need adequate sunlight to bloom.
Marsh plants attract insects and other pond animals to the pond
The nectar contained in the colorful flowers of marsh plants is attractive to various insects such as bees, butterflies and dragonflies. Various other aquatic animals and birds in turn gravitate to these insects. So if you want a pond with biodiversity, choose colorful marsh plants. - Simon
Colorful hardy Irises from our own nursery
Alternative to the lapwing flower
A good alternative to the lapwing flower is the Yellow Lis (Iris pseudacorus). The Yellow Iris has some advantages over the lapwing flower, such as better winter hardiness, faster growth rate, ability to purify water and generally easier maintenance. In addition, the Yellow Iris also brightens up the pond completely with its beautiful, large yellow flowers. Because the aquatic plant is hardy, it will come back more beautiful and fuller each year. Other good and bright choices are; Pikeweed (Pontederia cordata), Swan Flower (Butomus umbellatus) and Water mint (Mentha aquatica).
Disadvantages of the lapwing flower
Although the lapwing flower has a beautiful and striking flower, the plant also has some disadvantages. For example, the lapwing flower is sensitive to changes in the environment and can quickly disappear if conditions are not optimal. In addition, the lapwing flower is toxic to humans and animals, so caution should be taken when planting and caring for the pond plant. Therefore, it is important to keep the lapwing flower at a safe distance from children and pets. In addition, in some cases the lapwing flower can crowd out other pond plants, which can have a negative impact on biodiversity in the area.
Colorful hardy marsh plants from our own nursery
How long does a lapwing flower bloom?
A lapwing flower (Fritillaria meleagris) blooms for an average of 2 to 3 weeks, usually between March and May. The exact flowering time can vary depending on growing conditions and climate. After flowering, the plant goes dormant and the above-ground part dies off, then the bulb rests underground until the next growing season.
Frequently asked questions about lapwing flowers
The lapwing flower can be planted in a variety of locations, including moist, dry and wet soil in sun, semi-shade or shade, and in marshes, on the bank or in the pond.
Lapwing flower bulbs are best planted in October or November. For the flowers to thrive, care is needed, such as making sure the soil is fertile, peaty and not too moist and placing the flowers in partial shade for the best flowering results.

Simon van der Velde
Pond specialist and aquatic plant grower since 1986
Simon's vision is to let nature do its work in your pond. No need to buy all kinds of measuring equipment and water improvers. If the fish are swimming nicely and the plants are growing well, then the water in the pond is of good quality. With a good planting plan and the right approach, you can save a lot of money and maintenance, and ensure a clear, biologically balanced pond that becomes more beautiful every year.