Orontium Aquaticum
Contents
Description
Orontium Aquaticum, commonly known as Golden Club or Floating Arum, is a unique aquatic plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in shallow freshwater wetlands, ponds, and streams. The plant has a distinctive appearance with glossy leaves and a bright yellow or greenish-yellow spadix that resembles a club. It is a popular choice for water gardens and aquatic landscapes due to its unusual beauty.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Orontium |
Appearance
Orontium Aquaticum has glossy, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves can reach up to 12 inches in length and are usually green or yellow-green in color. The most striking feature of the plant is its spadix, which is a bright yellow or greenish-yellow club-shaped structure that emerges from the center of the plant. The spadix can grow up to 3 inches long and is surrounded by a yellow or greenish-yellow spathe. The plant usually blooms in the spring and summer, and the flowers emit a faint odor.
Care Guide
Orontium Aquaticum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing healthy and thriving Golden Club plants:- Water: Orontium Aquaticum is an aquatic plant that requires constantly moist soil. It can be grown in shallow water or in a pot submerged in water. The water should be changed regularly to prevent the buildup of algae and other harmful organisms.- Fertilization: Golden Club plants do not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release aquatic fertilizer can be added to the water once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Orontium Aquaticum can be grown in a variety of soils, including clay, sand, and loam. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.- Sunlight: Golden Club plants prefer partial shade to full sun. They can be grown in shallow water that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Orontium Aquaticum is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Club plants are relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is consistently waterlogged. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and the plant is not overwatered. In addition, Golden Club plants can be affected by snails and slugs, which can eat the leaves and damage the plant. To control snails and slugs, handpick them from the plant or use a commercial snail and slug bait.
Habitat
Orontium Aquaticum is native to North America and can be found in shallow freshwater wetlands, ponds, and streams. It prefers to grow in areas with full to partial sun exposure and nutrient-rich soil. The plant is an important part of the ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various aquatic animals and insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Orontium Aquaticum a good choice for water gardens?
A: Yes, Orontium Aquaticum is an excellent choice for water gardens and aquatic landscapes due to its unique appearance and easy care requirements.
Q: Can Orontium Aquaticum be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Orontium Aquaticum can be grown in pots submerged in water. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Q: Does Orontium Aquaticum require special fertilization?
A: Orontium Aquaticum does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release aquatic fertilizer can be added to the water once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Orontium Aquaticum?
A: Orontium Aquaticum can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-pulpit)- Acorus calamus (Sweet flag)- Sagittaria latifolia (Arrowhead)- Typha latifolia (Broad-leaved cattail)- Zantedeschia aethiopica (Calla lily)
References
– “Orontium Aquaticum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m630.- “Orontium Aquaticum.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/orontium-aquaticum.- “Orontium Aquaticum.” University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-database/water-plants/orontium-aquaticum.aspx.
