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Description
Ludwigia Suffruticosa, commonly known as the shrubby water primrose or water primrose, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is native to North and South America and can be found growing in shallow waters such as ponds, lakes, and streams. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and has a spread of up to 4 feet. The leaves of the Ludwigia Suffruticosa are oval-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Ludwigia |
Appearance
The Ludwigia Suffruticosa has a woody stem that grows horizontally along the bottom of the water. The stem can be dark brown to green in color and has small roots that anchor it to the ground. The leaves of the plant are arranged alternately along the stem and are 1-4 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers of the Ludwigia Suffruticosa are bright yellow and have four petals. They bloom from June to October and are about 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Water
Ludwigia Suffruticosa thrives in shallow waters with a depth of 6-18 inches. The water should be clean and well-aerated. The plant can tolerate some level of salinity but prefers freshwater.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
Soil
The Ludwigia Suffruticosa grows best in sandy or muddy soil. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sunlight to grow and bloom. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce the number of flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ludwigia Suffruticosa is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. It can also be affected by leaf spot, which causes dark spots on the leaves. The best way to prevent these problems is to maintain good water quality and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Ludwigia Suffruticosa is native to North and South America and can be found growing in shallow waters such as ponds, lakes, and streams. It is an invasive species in some areas and can outcompete native plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ludwigia Suffruticosa safe for fish and other aquatic animals?
A: Yes, the plant is safe for fish and other aquatic animals. It can even provide a habitat for them.
Q: Can Ludwigia Suffruticosa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to spread out and the water quality is maintained.
Q: Does Ludwigia Suffruticosa need to be pruned?
A: Pruning is not necessary, but it can help to control the size and shape of the plant.
Q: Can Ludwigia Suffruticosa be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and planting them in soil or water.
Related Plants
- Ludwigia grandiflora
- Ludwigia palustris
- Ludwigia repens
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/ludsuf/all.html
- https://www.aquascapeaddiction.com/articles/ludwigia-suffruticosa
- https://www.aquascapeinc.com/aquatic-plants/water-primrose-ludwigia-suffruticosa
