Contents
Description
Pilularia Globulifera, also known as pillwort or globefruit pillwort, is a small aquatic fern that belongs to the family Marsileaceae. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and can be found in wet habitats such as marshes, ditches, and shallow ponds. This plant is unique in that it produces small spherical structures called sporocarps in which the spores develop.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Marsileales |
| Family | Marsileaceae |
| Genus | Pilularia |
Appearance
Pillwort has small, grass-like fronds that are only a few centimeters long. The fronds are arranged in a rosette pattern and are typically green in color. The sporocarps, which resemble small green balls, are produced on short stalks and can be found at the base of the fronds. The sporocarps contain the spores needed for reproduction and can remain viable for several years.
Care Guide
Pillwort is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers to grow in wet, boggy soil and should be kept in a location that receives partial shade. It can be grown indoors in a container filled with peat moss and watered regularly. Fertilization is not necessary, as this plant obtains its nutrients from the water and soil.
Watering should be done to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The plant should not be allowed to dry out, as this can cause the fronds to wither and die. If grown in a container, the water level should be kept at a depth of about 1 inch.
Pillwort can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic and high in organic matter.
This plant prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pillwort is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in water that is stagnant or contains high levels of organic matter. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the water remains fresh.
Habitat
Pillwort can be found in a variety of wet habitats, including marshes, ditches, ponds, and slow-moving streams. It prefers to grow in shallow water or wet, boggy soil. This plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can pillwort be grown in a container?
A: Yes, pillwort can be grown in a container filled with peat moss and watered regularly.
Q: Does pillwort require fertilization?
A: No, fertilization is not necessary as this plant obtains its nutrients from the water and soil.
Q: What is the ideal growing location for pillwort?
A: Pillwort prefers to grow in wet, boggy soil and should be kept in a location that receives partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for pillwort?
A: Pillwort is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Marsilea quadrifolia
- Marsilea minuta
- Marsilea vestita
References
- Flora of North America: Marsileaceae
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Pilularia globulifera
- RHS: Pillwort
