Contents
Description
Alisma Subcordatum, commonly known as American water plantain, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the plantain family. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow water bodies. The plant has a rhizomatous stem that can grow up to 3 feet in height. It has long, narrow, and pointed leaves that grow alternately on the stem. The leaves have a distinct parallel venation pattern and can grow up to 10 inches in length. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces small white flowers that grow in clusters at the end of long stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Magnoliophyta || Class | Liliopsida || Order | Alismatales || Family | Alismataceae || Genus | Alisma |
Appearance
Alisma Subcordatum has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. The plant has long, slender leaves that grow alternately on the stem. The leaves have a distinct parallel venation pattern and can grow up to 10 inches in length. The stem can grow up to 3 feet in height and has a rhizomatous structure. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces small white flowers that grow in clusters at the end of long stems. The flowers have three petals and are arranged in a whorl.
Care Guide
Alisma Subcordatum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in wet soil and shallow water bodies. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Alisma Subcordatum requires consistent moisture and should be grown in wet soil or shallow water. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it will not thrive in dry conditions.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it can get its nutrients from the water and soil around it.- Soil: Alisma Subcordatum prefers wet, loamy soil with a neutral pH. The plant can tolerate some acidity but does not do well in alkaline soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not grow as well in low-light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Alisma Subcordatum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alisma Subcordatum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by some common aquatic pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.- Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can cause similar damage to aphids and can also transmit plant viruses.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Alisma Subcordatum is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow water bodies. The plant prefers slow-moving or stagnant water, and can often be found in ponds, lakes, and streams. It is also commonly found in the shallow margins of larger bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alisma Subcordatum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Alisma Subcordatum can be grown in a container with wet soil or shallow water.Q: Is Alisma Subcordatum edible?
A: The roots and young leaves of Alisma Subcordatum are edible and have been used in traditional medicine and cuisine.Q: Does Alisma Subcordatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Alisma Subcordatum can attract a variety of aquatic wildlife, including birds, fish, and insects.Q: How fast does Alisma Subcordatum grow?
A: Alisma Subcordatum grows at a moderate pace, typically reaching its full height within a few months of planting.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Alisma Subcordatum:- Alisma Plantago-Aquatica- Sagittaria Latifolia- Typha Latifolia- Sparganium Americanum
References
– “Alisma Subcordatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286844.- “Alisma Subcordatum.” Plant Database. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Alisma+subcordatum.
