Contents
Description
Scirpus Pedicellatus, commonly known as the tassel pondweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family of Cyperaceae. It is native to Africa and found growing in marshes, shallow ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant has long, slender stems that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and have a diameter of about 2-3mm. The leaves are narrow and elongated, and the flowers are arranged in dense clusters at the ends of the stems, giving the plant its unique tassel-like appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Scirpus |
Appearance
Scirpus Pedicellatus has long, slender stems that are green in color and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The stems have a diameter of about 2-3mm and are smooth and hairless. The leaves are narrow and elongated, and can grow up to 30cm in length. The flowers are arranged in dense clusters at the ends of the stems, and are brown or yellowish-brown in color. The plant produces small, dark brown fruits that are enclosed in a sac-like structure.
Care Guide
Water: Scirpus Pedicellatus requires moist soil and can tolerate standing water. It is best to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in spring.
Soil: Scirpus Pedicellatus prefers wet soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it prefers partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Scirpus Pedicellatus is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scirpus Pedicellatus can be affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. The plant is also susceptible to diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients, and removing any dead or diseased plant material.
Habitat
Scirpus Pedicellatus is native to Africa and can be found growing in marshes, shallow ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant prefers wet soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate standing water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scirpus Pedicellatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scirpus Pedicellatus can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s long, slender stems.
Q: Does Scirpus Pedicellatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant can attract birds and other wildlife that feed on its seeds and use it as a habitat.
Q: Can Scirpus Pedicellatus be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in early spring.
Q: Does Scirpus Pedicellatus require pruning?
A: No, the plant does not require pruning but can be trimmed back in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems.
Related Plants
- Scirpus Acutus
- Scirpus Atrovirens
- Scirpus Californicus
- Scirpus Cyperinus
- Scirpus Fluviatilis
References
- “Scirpus Pedicellatus.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/scirpuspedic.htm.
- “Scirpus Pedicellatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287043&isprofile=0&basic=scirpus%20pedicellatus.
- “Scirpus Pedicellatus.” Invasive Species Compendium, www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/50493.
