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| Category: Perennial |
| Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) (Carrots) |
| Origin: Asia, Southeastern (Asia) |
| Variegated Foliage: Yes |
| Flower Color: White |
| Bloomtime: Summer |
| Synonyms: [Oenanthe japonica 'Flamingo'] |
| Height: <1 foot |
| Width: 2-3 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: <15° F |
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Oenanthe javanica 'Flamingo' (Variegated Water Celery) - This is a creeping deciduous perennial to 6 inches tall with finely divided tricolored leaves of pink, cream, and green. It bears small flat-topped umbels of white flowers in summer. Plant full sun or shade in a well watered or wet location. Leaf color is most vibrant when the plant is grown in full sun. It works well as a groundcover with horizontal stems rooting at the nodes; a plant can spread 2 feet from its center in a season. It is also very useful as a shallow water plant in ponds where it is a very attractive food for koi. It is hardy to at least USDA Zone 7 (down to 5 degrees F) but does not appreciate hot climates. Although it has close relatives that go by common names such as Horsebane, Dead Tongue, and Drop Wort that are very poisonous, Oenanthe javanica is a culinary herb used in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines. The tops are eaten raw in salads or as a garnish similar to parsley. The young stems and leaves are also steamed with rice, or boiled and chopped as greens. There are many oriental recipes that include this vegetable.In addition, it is touted as being useful for inexpensive removal of wastewater nutrients.
The description above is based on our research and observations of this plant growing in our nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens in the Santa Barbara area. We would appreciate hearing from anyone who has additional information about this plant, even if they disagree with what we have written.
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