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Description
Hydrocotyle Laxiflora, also known as the Big-leaf Pennywort or the Creeping Marshweed, is a fascinating aquatic plant species that belongs to the family Araliaceae. It is native to various regions of Asia, including China, Japan, and Vietnam. The plant is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow waters, where it forms dense mats on the surface of the water.Hydrocotyle Laxiflora has a unique structure that consists of creeping stems that can grow up to 2 meters long. The leaves are large, round, and have a diameter of up to 20cm. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, and they bloom in the summer months. The plant is considered a great addition to any aquatic garden, as it provides a natural and serene look.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
| Species | Laxiflora |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Laxiflora has a characteristic appearance that makes it stand out from other aquatic plants. The plant has creeping stems that grow horizontally on the surface of the water. The stems can reach up to 2 meters in length and are covered with small, round leaves that have a diameter of up to 20cm. The leaves are bright green in color and have a smooth texture.The flowers of Hydrocotyle Laxiflora are small and greenish-white in color. They bloom in the summer months and are clustered in umbels that grow on long stalks. The plant is considered to be a great addition to any aquatic garden, as it provides a natural and serene look.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Laxiflora is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can be grown in various conditions. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:Water: Hydrocotyle Laxiflora prefers to grow in shallow waters that are rich in nutrients. The water should be kept clean and well-aerated.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional doses of aquatic plant fertilizers.Soil: Hydrocotyle Laxiflora does not require soil to grow, as it obtains its nutrients directly from the water.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sunlight, but it can also grow in shady areas.Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Laxiflora can grow in hardiness zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Laxiflora is generally not susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by snails, which can eat the leaves and damage the plant. To prevent snail infestations, it is recommended to keep the water clean and well-aerated.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Laxiflora is native to various regions of Asia, including China, Japan, and Vietnam. The plant is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow waters, where it forms dense mats on the surface of the water. It can also grow in slow-moving streams and ponds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Laxiflora a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Laxiflora is a fast-growing plant that can quickly spread and form dense mats on the surface of the water.Q: Can Hydrocotyle Laxiflora grow in deep waters?
A: No, Hydrocotyle Laxiflora prefers to grow in shallow waters that are rich in nutrients.Q: Does Hydrocotyle Laxiflora require frequent fertilization?
A: No, Hydrocotyle Laxiflora does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional doses of aquatic plant fertilizers.Q: Is Hydrocotyle Laxiflora susceptible to any major diseases?
A: No, Hydrocotyle Laxiflora is generally not susceptible to any major diseases, but it can be affected by snails, which can eat the leaves and damage the plant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hydrocotyle Laxiflora:
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
- Hydrocotyle Tripartita
- Hydrocotyle Ranunculoides
References
- “Hydrocotyle Laxiflora,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 9, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k680.
- “Hydrocotyle Laxiflora,” Aquatic Plant Central, accessed August 9, 2021, https://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=273.
- “Hydrocotyle Laxiflora,” Tropica Aquarium Plants, accessed August 9, 2021, https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Hydrocotylelaxiflora(054TC)/4468.
