Water Chestnut (Eleocharis dulcis) Pond Plant

Eleocharis dulcis

Perennial

Position:                     Full sun and planted into substrate of pond or sealed pot

Submersible:              2.5cm – 10cm above the crown of the plant

Height:                       Up to 1m 

Edible:                        Yes, when the foliage dies down

The Water Chestnut, Eleocharis dulcis, is a tropical member of sedge family that grows in the water margins. It is the underground corms that eaten rather than the stem of leaves as it case with many edible water plants.  These corms that can reach up to 4cm in diameter and have a crisp nut like texture with a delicate sweet coconut-like flavour . 
They can be prepared and utilised in many different types of dishes. The corms are peeled and then sliced for  stir-fry’s they can be  prepared fresh and included in salads.  Water Chest nuts are a nutritious food and in many Asian countries the corms are also used for their medicinal purposes which may assist with strengthening the immune system.