Contents
Description
Pontederia Sagittata, commonly known as the Arrowhead Pickerelweed, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Pontederiaceae family. It is native to the eastern regions of the United States, where it grows in shallow water and marshes. The plant features broad, arrow-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and have a glossy surface. Its flowers are blue-purple in color and bloom in the summer months. Pontederia Sagittata can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, making it an excellent choice for water gardens and naturalized areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Pontederiaceae |
| Genus | Pontederia |
Appearance
Pontederia Sagittata has broad, arrow-shaped leaves that are dark green and have a glossy surface. The leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and six inches wide. Its flowers are blue-purple in color and bloom in the summer months. The flowers are arranged on a spike that grows up to 18 inches tall. Pontederia Sagittata can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, making it a great choice for water gardens and naturalized areas.
Care Guide
Water: Pontederia Sagittata requires moist soil and can tolerate standing water. The plant can grow in water up to six inches deep.Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be added in the spring to promote growth.Soil: Pontederia Sagittata prefers moist, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Pontederia Sagittata is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pontederia Sagittata is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and rust. These diseases can be controlled by removing infected leaves and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Pontederia Sagittata is native to the eastern regions of the United States, where it grows in shallow water and marshes. The plant can also be found in wetlands, ponds, and streams. It is commonly used in water gardens and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pontederia Sagittata grow in standing water?
A: Yes, Pontederia Sagittata can grow in water up to six inches deep.
Q: Does Pontederia Sagittata require regular fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be added in the spring to promote growth.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Pontederia Sagittata?
A: The plant can be susceptible to leaf spot and rust.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pontederia Sagittata?
A: Pontederia Sagittata is hardy in zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Pontederia Cordata
- Pontederia Lanceolata
- Pontederia Rotundifolia
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pontederia Sagittata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=290701
- North Carolina State Extension. (n.d.). Pontederia Sagittata. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/pontederia-sagittata/
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Pontederia Sagittata. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP18600.pdf
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