This attractive marginal plant from the water ways of Asia is a sometimes called the Water Gladiolus because of the attractive bi-coloured flowers, that are 2.5cm (1in) across and gathered in a distinctive cluster of flowers at the top of stems. It is happiest right at the edge of a pond where it can dip its toes in shallow water. The roots are used in its native region for making flour. The plants should be divided regularly or flowering may decline.
