SafePlants

Buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata)

Buckbean, also known as Bogbean or Marsh Trefoil, is a fascinating aquatic plant with a rich history and widespread distribution.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the leaves of the buckbean plant have an intensely bitter taste, which might deter some animals from consuming them.

Considerations for Children

• The plant grows in bogs, marshes, and shallow water, which can pose potential hazards for unsupervised children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Menyanthes trifoliata L.
• Common Names: Buckbean, Bogbean, Marsh Trefoil, Bean Trefoil
• Family: Menyanthaceae (Buckbean Family)
• Menyanthes is a monotypic genus, meaning Menyanthes trifoliata is its only member.
• The North American form is sometimes referred to as M. trifoliata var. minor Michx.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Grows in spongy bogs, marshes, and shallow water.
• In Europe, it's noted as being rather scarce in the south of England.
• Found along shorelines and marshy meadows.
• Observed in locations such as the Barnum Bog at the Paul Smiths VIC and wetlands throughout Ontario.

Morphology and Growth

• A perennial water plant with a black, branching, jointed rootstock.
• Sends up a flower stem dilated at the base.
• Features dark green ternate (trifoliate) leaves.
• Produces racemes of 10 to 20 white trumpet-like flowers.
• Flowers have 5 pointed petals covered in long wiry hairs.
• Flowers can be white, pink, or purplish.

Historical and Traditional Uses

• Historically used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans and Europeans.
• The bitter-tasting leaves have been traditionally used to treat anorexia.
• Historically used for rheumatism.

Quirky Facts

• Buckbean Brewery exists in Reno, Nevada!
• There are houses located on "Buckbean" streets!

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned as an aquatic plant suitable for water gardens, water features, and ponds.

Further Information

• Information available at Dictionary.com.
• Photos and information available from Ontario Wildflowers.
• Stock photos available from Shutterstock and Getty Images.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-7