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Description
Sparganium Natans, commonly known as floating bur-reed or water bur-reed, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Sparganiaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Sparganiaceae |
| Genus | Sparganium |
Appearance
Sparganium Natans has long, narrow, and ribbon-like leaves that grow up to 3 feet long. Its stems are usually erect and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are arranged in dense, spherical heads that can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The heads are held above the water on long, slender stalks. The plant has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice in water gardens and ponds.
Care Guide
Sparganium Natans is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist soil and standing water. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Sparganium Natans grows in standing water and does not require additional watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil if the plant appears to be struggling.
- Soil: The plant prefers moist, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full to partial sunlight to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Sparganium Natans can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sparganium Natans is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves.
- Root rot: This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Sparganium Natans is native to North America and can be found in various water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers standing water that is up to 3 feet deep and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sparganium Natans a good choice for a water garden?
A: Yes, Sparganium Natans is a great choice for a water garden. It has a unique appearance and is easy to care for.
Q: Can Sparganium Natans tolerate full sunlight?
A: Yes, Sparganium Natans requires full to partial sunlight to thrive.
Q: Does Sparganium Natans require fertilization?
A: No, Sparganium Natans does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil if the plant appears to be struggling.
Q: What hardiness zones can Sparganium Natans grow in?
A: Sparganium Natans can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 10.
Related Plants
- Sparganium Erucastrum
- Sparganium Americanum
- Sparganium Emersum
- Sparganium Eurocarpum
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Sparganium natans L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SPNA
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Sparganium natans. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c305
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Sparganium natans: Floating bur-reed. Retrieved from https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/sparganium-natans/
