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Description
Myriophyllum Spicatum, commonly known as Eurasian watermilfoil, is a submerged aquatic plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 meters in length and has long, slender stems that branch out in a feather-like pattern. The leaves of this plant are finely divided and grow in whorls of 4-6 around the stem. The flowers of Myriophyllum Spicatum are small and inconspicuous, and they grow in the leaf axils. This plant is an invasive species in many parts of North America and can form dense mats that displace native aquatic vegetation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Haloragales |
| Family | Haloragaceae |
| Genus | Myriophyllum |
Appearance
Eurasian watermilfoil has long, slender stems that can grow up to 3 meters in length. The leaves of this plant are finely divided and grow in whorls of 4-6 around the stem. The leaves are usually between 1 and 2.5 centimeters long and have a feather-like appearance. The flowers of Myriophyllum Spicatum are small and inconspicuous, and they grow in the leaf axils. This plant is often mistaken for native watermilfoils, but it can be distinguished by its more finely divided leaves and its tendency to grow in dense mats.
Care Guide
Eurasian watermilfoil is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers to grow in still or slow-moving water that is at least 3 feet deep. This plant can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and pH levels.
Water: Myriophyllum Spicatum should be planted in still or slow-moving water that is at least 3 feet deep. It can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and pH levels.
Fertilization: Eurasian watermilfoil does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer tablet placed at the base of the plant.
Soil: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sand, silt, and clay. It prefers a substrate that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Myriophyllum Spicatum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eurasian watermilfoil is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to herbicide treatments that are meant to control its growth.
Habitat
Eurasian watermilfoil is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to many parts of North America, where it is considered an invasive species. This plant prefers to grow in still or slow-moving water that is at least 3 feet deep. It can be found in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eurasian watermilfoil an invasive species?
A: Yes, Eurasian watermilfoil is an invasive species in many parts of North America.
Q: Does Eurasian watermilfoil require fertilization?
A: No, Eurasian watermilfoil does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer tablet placed at the base of the plant.
Q: What is the preferred habitat for Eurasian watermilfoil?
A: Eurasian watermilfoil prefers to grow in still or slow-moving water that is at least 3 feet deep.
Q: Can Eurasian watermilfoil tolerate a wide range of water temperatures?
A: Yes, Eurasian watermilfoil can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and pH levels.
Related Plants
- Myriophyllum aquaticum (Parrot feather)
- Myriophyllum heterophyllum (Twoleaf watermilfoil)
- Myriophyllum pinnatum (Cutleaf watermilfoil)
References
- https://www.invasive.org/eastern/midatlantic/myrsp.html
- https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/0,5664,7-324-68002_71240_73865-350521–,00.html
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MYSPI
