Bog Plants

Hosta (Hosta spp. and varieties)
Hosta are fast-spreading, clump-forming plants that will enhance any waterside arrangement. However, they must be adequately protected from slugs and snails which find these plants particularly delectable. Frequent "baiting" around the plants, preferably using natural methods, such as half grapefruits or small sunken cups (or other vessels) containing beer or ale, should be carried out from spring onwards. failure to do this can result in badly chewed leaves which can become something of an eyesore, particularly during the summer season. there are numerous types of Hosta, including some strikingly marked variegated hybrids and varieties.

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
This is an impressive plant, especially when large stand is in full bloom. In the wild type, the tall flower spikes are purple-pink and can attain a height of up to 6.5ft (c.2m), while, in the various cultivars, they tend to be lighter and, often a little shorter. One of the features that makes L.salicaria so attractive as a wildlife waterside plant is that it attracts bees, several types of butterflies and otehr insects.

Monkey Flower or Musk (Mimulus spp. and varieties)
There are several species and many different Mimulus cultivators available, some more winter-tolerant than others in temperate zones. One of the hardiest species is Mimulus luteus (Yellow Musk) which is very vigorous and can become invasive, especially since it self seeds freely.