Contents
Description
Nymphoides Peltata, commonly known as Yellow Floating Heart, is a perennial aquatic plant native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It belongs to the Menyanthaceae family and is known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Menyanthales |
| Family | Menyanthaceae |
| Genus | Nymphoides |
Appearance
Nymphoides Peltata has green, circular leaves that float on the surface of the water. Each leaf measures about 3-5 inches in diameter and has a distinctive notch at the base. The plant produces yellow flowers that have five petals and measure about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom above the water surface and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Nymphoides Peltata is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep the plant healthy:
- Water: The plant requires a lot of water to thrive. Keep the water level at least 6 inches deep.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant does not require soil. It can be grown in a container filled with gravel or sand.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nymphoides Peltata is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Algae: Algae can grow on the leaves and suffocate the plant. To prevent this, keep the water clean and reduce the amount of sunlight the plant receives.
- Snails: Snails can eat the leaves of the plant. To prevent this, add snail-eating fish to the water.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown spots on the leaves. To prevent this, keep the water clean and remove affected leaves.
Habitat
Nymphoides Peltata can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers calm waters with no or little current. The plant can grow in both acidic and alkaline waters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nymphoides Peltata an invasive species?
A: Yes, Nymphoides Peltata is considered an invasive species in some regions of North America and Europe.
Q: Can Nymphoides Peltata be grown in a small pond?
A: Yes, Nymphoides Peltata can be grown in a small pond as long as the water level is at least 6 inches deep.
Q: How often should Nymphoides Peltata be fertilized?
A: Nymphoides Peltata should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: How deep should the container for Nymphoides Peltata be?
A: The container for Nymphoides Peltata should be at least 6 inches deep.
Related Plants
- Nymphoides Aquatica
- Nymphoides Geminata
- Nymphoides Indica
- Nymphoides Krantzii
References
- “Nymphoides Peltata Yellow Floating Heart.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c789>
- “Nymphoides Peltata.” Aquatic Plant Central. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=123>
- “Yellow Floating Heart.” Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/aquaticplants/floatinghearts/yellow.html>
