Alisma

Description

Alisma is a genus of aquatic plants that belongs to the family Alismataceae. It is commonly known as water-plantain or mad-dog weed. This plant is native to the northern hemisphere and is found in wetlands and shallow waters. It is a unique plant with long, narrow leaves that grow from a basal rosette. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers on long, slender stems that rise above the water surface.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Alisma has long, narrow leaves that grow up to 30 cm in length and 3 cm in width. The leaves are basal and emerge from a central rosette. They are green in color and have a glossy surface. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are held on long, slender stems that rise above the water surface.

Care Guide

Alisma is an aquatic plant that requires specific care to thrive. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Water: Alisma requires consistently moist soil or water to grow. It thrives in wetlands, marshes, and other shallow waters.
• Fertilization: Alisma does not require regular fertilization.
• Soil: Alisma prefers sandy, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also grow in clay soil as long as it is consistently moist.
• Sunlight: Alisma prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Alisma can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Alisma is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the soil or water it is growing in is not well-drained. It may also attract snails and slugs, which can damage the leaves.

Habitat

Alisma is native to the northern hemisphere and can be found in wetlands, marshes, shallow ponds, and other bodies of water. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types as long as it is consistently moist.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Alisma grow in saltwater?

A: No, Alisma is a freshwater plant and cannot tolerate saltwater.

Q: Does Alisma have any medicinal properties?

A: Yes, Alisma has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and urinary tract infections.

Q: How deep should the water be for growing Alisma?

A: Alisma can grow in shallow water up to 30 cm deep.

Q: Can Alisma be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Alisma can be grown in a container as long as it is filled with consistently moist soil or water.

Related Plants

• Sagittaria
• Acorus
• Typha
• Iris

References

• “Alisma.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
• “Alisma.” Plant Finder. Accessed 22 June 2021. www.perennials.com
• “Alisma.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 June 2021. www.rhs.org.uk