Contents
Description
Saururus is a genus of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants that belongs to the family Saururaceae. It is commonly known as the lizard’s tail or water dragon due to its unique appearance. Saururus is native to North and South America, and it is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The plant typically grows in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Saururaceae |
| Genus | Saururus |
Appearance
Saururus has a distinctive appearance that can add a touch of exotic beauty to any garden. The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of about 2 feet. It has heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 6 inches in length. The flowers of Saururus are small and white, and they bloom in the summer. The plant also produces a fruit that is round and black in color.
Care Guide
Saururus is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Saururus:
- Water: Saururus is a water-loving plant that requires plenty of moisture to thrive. It is best to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Saururus does not require much fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year to promote growth.
- Soil: Saururus prefers a rich, loamy soil that is well-draining. If your soil is sandy, you may need to add some organic matter to improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
- Sunlight: Saururus prefers partial shade to full sun. If you live in a hot climate, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent it from drying out.
- Hardiness Zones: Saururus is hardy in USDA zones 5-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saururus is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect your Saururus:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from your Saururus and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: These small, white flies can also suck the sap from your Saururus and cause yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if your Saururus is planted in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater your plant.
Habitat
Saururus is native to North and South America, and it typically grows in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy and clay soils. Saururus can also tolerate some salinity, which makes it a good choice for coastal gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Saururus grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Saururus can tolerate full sun, but it may benefit from some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Q: Can I grow Saururus in a container?
A: Yes, Saururus can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to spread its roots.
Q: How often should I water my Saururus?
A: Saururus prefers consistently moist soil, so you may need to water it every day during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can Saururus tolerate saltwater?
A: Saururus can tolerate some salinity, but it is not a true saltwater plant.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea
- Hosta
- Astilbe
- Iris
References
- “Saururus cernuus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277456.
- “Saururus cernuus.” Plant Database. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SACE3.
- “Saururus cernuus.” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/saururus-cernuus/.
