Contents
Description
Egeria Densa, also known as Brazilian waterweed or Anacharis, is a popular aquatic plant native to South America. It is a fast-growing submerged plant that can grow up to 2 meters in length. Egeria Densa has a bright green color with long, slender leaves that grow in whorls of 4-6 along the stem. This plant is often used in aquariums and outdoor water gardens due to its ability to oxygenate water and remove excess nutrients.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus | Egeria |
Appearance
Egeria Densa has long, slender leaves that are about 1-3 cm in length and 1-5 mm in width. The leaves grow in whorls of 4-6 along the stem and are arranged in a spiral pattern. The plant has a bright green color and can grow up to 2 meters in length. Egeria Densa produces small, white flowers that bloom above the water’s surface in the summer months.
Care Guide
Egeria Densa is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor water gardens. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Egeria Densa requires clean, fresh water to grow. Change the water in your aquarium or water garden regularly to keep it healthy.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require additional fertilizer if it is planted in nutrient-rich soil.
- Soil: Egeria Densa can grow in a variety of soils, but prefers nutrient-rich substrate. For indoor aquariums, use a substrate specifically designed for aquatic plants.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Egeria Densa is hardy in zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Egeria Densa is relatively disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Algae: Algae can grow on the leaves of Egeria Densa if the water quality is poor. Remove any algae growth with a soft brush or by scraping it off gently.
- Snails: Snails can feed on the leaves of Egeria Densa, causing damage. Use a snail trap or remove them manually to control their population.
- Root rot: This can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil is not well-draining. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Habitat
Egeria Densa is native to South America and can be found growing in slow-moving streams, ponds, and lakes. It prefers water with a temperature between 15-25°C and a pH level between 6.5-7.5.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Egeria Densa grow in brackish water?
A: No, Egeria Densa is a freshwater plant and cannot tolerate brackish water.
Q: Can Egeria Densa grow fully submerged?
A: Yes, Egeria Densa is a fully submerged aquatic plant.
Q: How fast does Egeria Densa grow?
A: Egeria Densa is a fast-growing plant and can grow up to 2 meters in length in a single growing season.
Q: Can Egeria Densa be propagated?
A: Yes, Egeria Densa can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and replanting them in nutrient-rich soil.
Related Plants
- Hydrilla verticillata
- Cabomba caroliniana
- Ludwigia repens
- Nymphaea odorata
References
- “Egeria Densa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 October 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281968.
- “Egeria Densa.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 5 October 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6269/Egeria-densa/Details.
- “Egeria Densa.” The Aquarium Guide. Accessed 5 October 2021. www.theaquariumguide.com/articles/egeria-densa.
