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Description
Ludwigia Peploides Subsp. Stipulacea, also known as water primrose, is a perennial aquatic plant belonging to the family Onagraceae. This plant is native to the Americas, particularly in the southeastern United States, and has become invasive in many regions worldwide. It is characterized by its yellow flowers and oval-shaped leaves that grow in an opposite pattern.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Ludwigia |
Appearance
Water primrose can grow up to 3 meters long and has a sprawling growth habit. Its leaves are oval-shaped and grow in an opposite pattern, with a shiny green color on top and a purple tinge underneath. The flowers are a bright yellow color and bloom from June to September. The plant also produces small, cone-shaped fruits that contain tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Water primrose needs to be grown in water, preferably in a pond or container with at least 6 inches of water.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Water primrose does not grow in soil but in water instead.Sunlight: Water primrose requires full sun exposure to thrive.Hardiness Zones: This plant can be grown in hardiness zones 5 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Water primrose is susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that affect this plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and stem rot.
Habitat
Water primrose grows in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers calm waters with little to no current and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can water primrose be grown in containers?
A: Yes, water primrose can be grown in containers with at least 6 inches of water.Q: How often should I fertilize water primrose?
A: Water primrose should be fertilized during the growing season, approximately once a month.Q: What is the best water temperature for water primrose?
A: Water primrose thrives in water temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.Q: Is water primrose an invasive species?
A: Yes, water primrose is considered an invasive species in many regions worldwide.
Related Plants
- Ludwigia grandiflora
- Ludwigia repens
- Ludwigia sedioides
References
- “Ludwigia Peploides Subsp. Stipulacea (Water Primrose).” US Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/ludpep/all.html.
- “Water Primrose (Ludwigia Peploides).” National Invasive Species Information Center, www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/aquatics/water-primrose.
- “Ludwigia Peploides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287167.
