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Description
Eleocharis Melanocarpa, commonly known as black-fruited spikerush, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to North America and is often found in shallow water or moist soil in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams. The plant has a slender stem that grows up to 30cm tall, with linear leaves that are light green in color. The plant produces small, black fruits that are clustered at the end of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eleocharis |
Appearance
Eleocharis Melanocarpa has a slender stem that grows up to 30cm tall. The stem is light green in color and is round and smooth. The leaves are linear and also light green in color, growing up to 5cm long and 0.2cm wide. The plant produces small, black fruits that are clustered at the end of the stem. The fruits are cylindrical in shape and are about 2mm long.
Care Guide
Eleocharis Melanocarpa requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to help maintain a healthy plant:Water: This plant requires constant moisture and thrives in shallow water or moist soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.Soil: This plant requires a rich, loamy soil that is high in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.Sunlight: Eleocharis Melanocarpa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shaded areas but will not grow as vigorously.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eleocharis Melanocarpa is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be controlled with a fungicide.
Habitat
Eleocharis Melanocarpa is native to North America and is often found in shallow water or moist soil in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams. It is commonly found in the eastern United States, ranging from Maine to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eleocharis Melanocarpa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container filled with aquatic soil.Q: How often should Eleocharis Melanocarpa be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.Q: What is the ideal pH range for the soil for this plant?
A: It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.Q: Is Eleocharis Melanocarpa a good oxygenator for a pond?
A: Yes, this plant can help oxygenate the water in a pond.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Eleocharis Melanocarpa:- Eleocharis acicularis- Eleocharis dulcis- Eleocharis obtusa- Eleocharis parvula
References
– “Eleocharis Melanocarpa – (Torrey) Svenson.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 25 May 2021. – “Eleocharis Melanocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. – “Eleocharis Melanocarpa.” Aquatic Plant Central. Accessed 25 May 2021.
