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Description
Sparganium Eurycarpum, also known as Broad-fruited Bur-reed or Giant Bur-reed, is an aquatic perennial plant that is commonly found in the eastern and central regions of North America. It belongs to the family Typhaceae, which includes cattails, reedmace, and bulrushes. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and has large, spiky flower heads that can be up to 3 inches wide. The flowers are dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are found on separate plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Typhaceae |
| Genus | Sparganium |
Appearance
The leaves of Sparganium Eurycarpum are long, narrow, and strap-shaped, and can grow up to 6 feet long. The flower heads are spherical and are made up of many small flowers that are densely packed together. The male flowers are yellowish-brown in color, while the female flowers are greenish-brown. The fruit is a large, round, spiky ball that contains many small seeds. The plant blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Sparganium Eurycarpum is a hardy plant that requires little care. It prefers to grow in shallow water, up to 2 feet deep, in full sun or partial shade. The water should be clean and free of pollutants. The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or by collecting and planting the seeds in the fall. Fertilizer is not necessary, but the soil can be enriched with organic matter. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sparganium Eurycarpum is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in water that is too deep or stagnant, or if the soil is kept too wet. Insects such as aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Sparganium Eurycarpum is found in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams. It grows in water that is shallow and slow-moving, and prefers sandy or muddy bottoms. The plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sparganium Eurycarpum a good plant for a water garden?
A: Yes, Sparganium Eurycarpum is an excellent plant for a water garden. It is hardy, easy to care for, and adds a unique and interesting element to the landscape.
Q: Can Sparganium Eurycarpum be grown as a houseplant?
A: No, Sparganium Eurycarpum is an aquatic plant and cannot be grown as a houseplant. It requires a constant supply of water to survive.
Q: Does Sparganium Eurycarpum have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Sparganium Eurycarpum has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and urinary tract infections. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for these uses.
Q: Is Sparganium Eurycarpum an invasive species?
A: No, Sparganium Eurycarpum is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant that provides important habitat and food for wildlife.
Related Plants
- Sparganium Americanum
- Sparganium Angustifolium
- Sparganium Emersum
- Sparganium Erectum
References
- “Sparganium eurycarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org>
- “Sparganium eurycarpum.” United States Department of Agriculture. Accessed 17 June 2021. <http://www.plants.usda.gov>
- “Broad-fruited Bur-reed.” Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Accessed 17 June 2021. <http://www.aquaplant.tamu.edu>
