Contents
Description
Elatinaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes around 10 genera and 150 species. These plants are mainly aquatic or semi-aquatic, and are found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and streams. The family is distributed throughout the world, with the highest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Elatinaceae |
| Genus | Elatine, Bergia, Lythrum, Nesaea, etc. |
Appearance
Elatinaceae plants are characterized by their small size and delicate structure. They often have thin stems and small leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are usually small and inconspicuous, with five petals and a central disk. The colors of the flowers can range from white to pink, red, or purple.
Care Guide
To care for Elatinaceae plants, it is important to provide them with the right conditions. Here are some tips:- Water: These plants require plenty of water, as they are mainly aquatic or semi-aquatic. Make sure the water is clean and free from pollutants.- Fertilization: Elatinaceae plants do not require much fertilization, as they can obtain nutrients from the water. However, if you want to give them a boost, you can use a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: These plants do not grow in soil, but rather in water. However, you can use a substrate such as gravel or sand to anchor the plants.- Sunlight: Elatinaceae plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. If you are growing them indoors, place them near a window that gets plenty of light.- Hardiness Zones: The hardiness zones for these plants vary depending on the species. Check the specific requirements for the species you are growing.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elatinaceae plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to fungal infections if the water is stagnant or dirty. To prevent this, make sure the water is clean and well-aerated. In addition, you may want to use a fungicide if you notice any signs of infection.
Habitat
Elatinaceae plants are found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, and streams. They are mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions, but can also be found in temperate regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Elatinaceae plants difficult to care for?
A: Not really. These plants are fairly easy to care for, as long as you provide them with plenty of water and the right conditions.
Q: Can Elatinaceae plants grow in soil?
A: No, these plants are aquatic or semi-aquatic and do not grow in soil. You can use a substrate such as gravel or sand to anchor the plants.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Elatinaceae plants?
A: The hardiness zone for these plants varies depending on the species. Check the specific requirements for the species you are growing.
Q: Do Elatinaceae plants require fertilization?
A: These plants do not require much fertilization, as they can obtain nutrients from the water. However, if you want to give them a boost, you can use a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Elatinaceae:- Lythraceae (loosestrife family)- Onagraceae (evening primrose family)- Haloragaceae (waterweed family)- Hydrocharitaceae (frogbit family)
References
– “Elatinaceae.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 23 May 2021. Web.- “Elatinaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. n.d. Web.- “Aquatic Plant Families.” Florida Department of Environmental Protection. n.d. Web.
