Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) is a perennial aquatic plant native to the wetlands of the Northern Hemisphere, thriving in bogs, marshes, and wet meadows. It plays a crucial role in wetland ecosystems by stabilizing soil and providing habitat for aquatic organisms. In regenerative agriculture, Bogbean is valued for its ability to enhance biodiversity and support water purification processes. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its bitter compounds, which aid digestion and stimulate appetite. However, due to potential toxicity, it should be used with caution. In a food forest, Bogbean serves as a ground cover layer in wetland areas, and it can be paired with other moisture-loving plants like Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) and Iris pseudacorus (Yellow Flag Iris) to create a diverse plant guild.
Growing Details
Bogbean thrives in consistently moist, acidic soils typical of bogs and marshes. It can be propagated by division of rhizomes in early spring. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include moisture-loving species like Marsh Marigold and Yellow Flag Iris. Avoid planting in areas that dry out, as this can stress the plant. Harvest leaves in spring for medicinal use, and dry them thoroughly before storage.
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Menyanthes trifoliata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Northern Hemisphere, found in E
applicable geo region: Northern Hemisphere
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: Bogbean is not commonly consumed as food due to its bitterness and potential toxicity. It is primarily used for medicinal purposes.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally used to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. It has also been used in herbal remedies for rheumatism and as a tonic. The leaves are typically harvested in spring and dried for later use.
health concerns: Contains bitter compounds that can be toxic in large quantities. Should be used with caution and under the guidance of a knowledgeable herbalist.
other uses: Can be used in wetland restoration and as a habitat plant for aquatic wildlife. It contributes to the stabilization of waterlogged soils and supports biodiversity.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Menyanthes trifoliata
common names: Bogbean; Buckbean; Marsh Trefoil
family: Menyanthaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Menyanthes
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: Medium
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(3/10)
first harvest: 365 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Bogbean thrives in consistently moist, acidic soils typical of bogs and marshes. It can be propagated by division of rhizomes in early spring. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include moisture-loving species like Marsh Marigold and Yellow Flag Iris. Avoid planting in areas that dry out, as this can stress the plant. Harvest leaves in spring for medicinal use, and dry them thoroughly before storage.
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to slug and snail damage. Natural management includes introducing predatory beetles and using copper barriers to deter slugs. Planting garlic nearby can also help repel these pests.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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