Contents
Description
Orontium is a genus of aquatic plants that are native to North America. Also known as goldenclub, it is a unique plant that is easily recognizable by its bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. Orontium is a popular choice for pond and water garden enthusiasts due to its showy blooms and attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Orontium |
Appearance
Orontium has long, slender leaves that grow up to 18 inches in length. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy, almost waxy texture. The plant produces a single, tall flower stalk that can reach up to 12 inches in height. The flowers are small and yellow, resembling a miniature corn on the cob. The plant blooms in the spring and summer, and the flowers are followed by small, black berries.
Care Guide
Orontium is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require certain conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Orontium:- Water: Orontium is an aquatic plant, so it requires constant access to water. It is best grown in a pond or water garden.- Fertilization: Orontium does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Orontium does not grow in soil, but rather in the mud at the bottom of a pond or water garden.- Sunlight: Orontium prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce blooming.- Hardiness Zones: Orontium is hardy in zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Orontium is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves of Orontium, causing yellowing and browning of the foliage.- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot in Orontium.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves of Orontium, causing stunted growth and distorted foliage.
Habitat
Orontium is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, ponds, and shallow streams throughout the eastern United States. It prefers still or slow-moving water and can grow in both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Orontium be grown in a container?
A: While Orontium is technically an aquatic plant, it can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and has access to water.
Q: Can Orontium be grown in saltwater?
A: No, Orontium is a freshwater plant and cannot tolerate high levels of salt.
Q: Does Orontium attract bees?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of Orontium are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Orontium be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Orontium can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Root the cuttings in water or moist soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Orontium:- Calla Lily (Zantedeschia)- Arrowhead Plant (Sagittaria)- Water Lily (Nymphaea)- Cattail (Typha)
References
– “Orontium aquaticum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286540. Accessed 22 July 2021.- “Golden Club (Orontium aquaticum).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/golden-club.html. Accessed 22 July 2021.- “Orontium aquaticum.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/orontium-aquaticum. Accessed 22 July 2021.
