Sagittaria Papillosa

Description

Sagittaria Papillosa, also known as the Papillose Arrowhead or the Wavy-leaf Arrowhead, is an aquatic plant that belongs to the Alismataceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in shallow water or wet soil habitats such as ponds, marshes, and stream banks. This plant is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall and has arrow-shaped leaves that are wavy and slightly papillose (meaning they have small bumps or projections on the surface). It produces white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, and it can be propagated through its rhizomes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Sagittaria Papillosa has distinctive arrow-shaped leaves that are wavy and slightly papillose on the surface. The leaves are typically green in color, but can sometimes have a reddish tint. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers have three petals and a yellow center. The plant’s rhizomes are thick and fleshy, and can be used for propagation.

Care Guide

To successfully grow and care for Sagittaria Papillosa, there are several important factors to consider:- Water: This plant requires consistently moist soil, so be sure to keep it well-watered. It can also tolerate being partially submerged in water, so consider placing it in a shallow pond or water feature.- Fertilization: Sagittaria Papillosa does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be used once or twice a year to promote growth and flowering.- Soil: This plant prefers nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. Consider adding compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.- Sunlight: Sagittaria Papillosa thrives in full sun to partial shade. Be sure to place it in a location that receives at least 5-6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sagittaria Papillosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if its soil is consistently waterlogged. To prevent this, be sure to provide adequate drainage and avoid over-watering. If you notice any signs of fungal or bacterial disease, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide.

Habitat

Sagittaria Papillosa is native to North America and can be found in shallow water or wet soil habitats such as ponds, marshes, and stream banks. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including full sun to partial shade and nutrient-rich soil.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Sagittaria Papillosa be grown in containers?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are kept consistently moist and have adequate drainage.

Q: How often should Sagittaria Papillosa be fertilized?

A: This plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be used once or twice a year to promote growth and flowering.

Q: How often should Sagittaria Papillosa be watered?

A: This plant requires consistently moist soil, so be sure to keep it well-watered. However, be careful not to over-water as this can lead to root rot.

Q: Is Sagittaria Papillosa a good plant for wildlife ponds?

A: Yes, this plant is a great addition to wildlife ponds as it provides habitat and food for aquatic animals such as fish and insects.

Related Plants

– Sagittaria Latifolia (Common Arrowhead)- Sagittaria Subulata (Dwarf Sagittaria)- Sagittaria Engelmanniana (Engelmann’s Arrowhead)

References

– “Sagittaria Papillosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277800&isprofile=0&basic=Sagittaria%20papillosa.- “Sagittaria Papillosa (Papillose Arrowhead).” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/papillose-arrowhead.