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Description
Decodon Verticillatus, also known as water willow, is a flowering plant native to North America. It typically grows in wet, marshy areas such as swamps, bogs, and along the banks of streams and ponds. This plant is recognized by its long, narrow leaves and small, white or pink flowers that bloom from July to September. It is a popular choice for wetland restoration projects and is known to attract a variety of pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Decodon |
Appearance
The leaves of Decodon Verticillatus are narrow and lance-shaped, ranging from 1-4 inches in length. They are arranged in whorls of 3-6 around the stem and have a distinct midrib. The flowers are small, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter, and are typically white or pink in color. They have five petals and numerous stamens. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Decodon Verticillatus requires moist soil and partial to full sunlight. It is recommended to plant this species in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. It is also important to keep the soil consistently moist, as water willow is a wetland plant. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Decodon Verticillatus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew and rust, which can be treated with a fungicide. Insects such as aphids and spider mites may also be a problem, and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Decodon Verticillatus is native to North America and can be found in wetland habitats such as swamps, bogs, and along the banks of streams and ponds. It is often used in wetland restoration projects to help stabilize soil and improve water quality.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Decodon Verticillatus grow in a container?
A: Yes, it is possible to grow Decodon Verticillatus in a container. However, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist and provide enough sunlight.
Q: Is Decodon Verticillatus a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Decodon Verticillatus is known to attract a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Does Decodon Verticillatus require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Decodon Verticillatus is relatively low-maintenance. It requires consistent moisture and sunlight, but does not need to be fertilized often.
Q: How can I propagate Decodon Verticillatus?
A: Decodon Verticillatus can be propagated through seed or by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
- Lythrum salicaria
- Iris versicolor
- Caltha palustris
- Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
- Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum)
References
- “Decodon verticillatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c160>.
- “Decodon verticillatus.” Plant Database. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DEVE2>.
- “How to Grow and Care for Water Willow.” Gardenerdy. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021. <https://gardenerdy.com/how-to-grow-care-for-water-willow>.
