Contents
Description
Brasenia schreberi, commonly known as water shield, is an aquatic plant species that belongs to the Cabombaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant is named after the water-repellent shield that can be seen on the surface of the water.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Monocots |
| Order: | Nymphaeales |
| Family: | Cabombaceae |
| Genus: | Brasenia |
Appearance
The Brasenia plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other aquatic plants. The plant has floating leaves that are circular with a diameter of 10-20 cm. The leaves are thick and have a glossy surface that repels water. The plant also has submerged leaves that are long and slender. The flowers of the Brasenia plant are small and white, and they bloom from June to September.
Care Guide
Taking care of the Brasenia plant is relatively easy, and it requires minimal effort. Here are some tips on how to care for the Brasenia plant:Water: The plant requires a constant supply of freshwater, and it should be submerged in water that is at least 30 cm deep.Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer if you want to promote growth.Soil: The plant does not require soil as it lives in water. However, you can add a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom of the pond to anchor the plant.Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to thrive, and it should be placed in an area where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Brasenia plant can survive in hardiness zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Brasenia plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that affect the Brasenia plant:Algae: The plant can be affected by algae growth, which can block sunlight and reduce growth.Leaf Spot: The plant can develop leaf spots, which are caused by fungal infections. The spots can be treated with fungicides.Snails: Snails can feed on the leaves of the plant, which can cause damage. You can remove the snails by hand or use snail traps.
Habitat
The Brasenia plant is native to North America and can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant prefers freshwater, and it can survive in both shallow and deep water. The plant is commonly found in the northeastern United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Brasenia plant survive in saltwater?A: No, the Brasenia plant requires freshwater to survive.Q: How often should I fertilize the Brasenia plant?A: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer if you want to promote growth.Q: Can I grow the Brasenia plant in a container?A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it is submerged in water.Q: Can the Brasenia plant be used for culinary purposes?A: No, the Brasenia plant is not edible.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to the Brasenia plant:- Cabomba aquatica- Nymphaea odorata- Ludwigia palustris
References
– “Brasenia schreberi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287936.- “Water Shield.” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/plants/water_shield.html.- “Water Shield (Brasenia schreberi).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/wt_shield.htm.
