Sparganium
Contents
Description
Sparganium is a genus of aquatic plants that belong to the Typhaceae family. There are approximately 15 species of Sparganium, which are found in temperate and tropical regions of the world. These plants are commonly known as bur-reeds because of the bur-like fruits that they produce. The name Sparganium is derived from the Greek word “sparganion,” which means “bandage” or “bandage-like.” This refers to the use of the leaves of these plants by ancient Greeks as a dressing for wounds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Typhaceae |
| Genus | Sparganium |
Appearance
Sparganium plants have long, slender, and unbranched stems that grow up to 2 meters in height. The stems are round and hollow, with vertical leaves that are long and narrow. The leaves are arranged in two ranks, and they are often twisted. The flowers of Sparganium plants are small and inconspicuous, with no petals. They are arranged in dense, spherical clusters that are held above the water surface by long stalks. The fruits of Sparganium plants are bur-like, with numerous sharp spines that are used for dispersal.
Care Guide
Sparganium plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for your Sparganium:
- Water: Sparganium plants require a constant supply of water. They are aquatic plants and should be grown in ponds, lakes or other water bodies.
- Fertilization: Sparganium plants do not require fertilization, but they can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Sparganium plants do not require soil, but they can be grown in a soil-less medium such as sand or gravel.
- Sunlight: Sparganium plants thrive in full sun, but they can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sparganium plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sparganium plants are generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Sparganium plants, causing them to wilt and die.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves of Sparganium plants.
Habitat
Sparganium plants are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including ponds, lakes, streams, and marshes. They grow best in still or slow-moving water that is rich in nutrients. Sparganium plants can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including alkaline and acidic water. They are also tolerant of low oxygen levels, making them suitable for growing in wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q. Are Sparganium plants easy to grow?
A. Yes, Sparganium plants are easy to grow and require minimal care.
Q. Can Sparganium plants be grown in a container?
A. Yes, Sparganium plants can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate their growth.
Q. Can Sparganium plants tolerate cold temperatures?
A. Yes, Sparganium plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-10 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q. How often should I fertilize my Sparganium plants?
A. Sparganium plants do not require frequent fertilization, but they can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Cat-tail (Typha spp.)
- Water Lily (Nymphaea spp.)
- Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
- Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Sparganium. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=130212
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Sparganium. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c836
- University of Florida. (n.d.). Sparganium. Retrieved from https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/sparganium/
