Sphenoclea Zeylanica

Description

Sphenoclea Zeylanica, commonly known as the nila-karandi plant, is a herbaceous aquatic plant belonging to the family Sphenocleaceae. It is native to tropical Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The plant can grow up to 40 cm in height and has an erect stem with branches. The leaves are oblong or ovate with a pointed tip, and they can grow up to 6 cm long. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and they bloom from May to August.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Sphenoclea Zeylanica plant has an attractive appearance and is often grown for its ornamental value. The leaves are green and glossy, and they have a slightly wavy edge. The stem and branches are greenish-brown and have a smooth texture. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and they are followed by small, greenish-brown fruits.

Care Guide

To grow Sphenoclea Zeylanica successfully, you need to provide the right care. Here are some basic care guidelines:Water: This plant requires plenty of water to grow well. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil.Sunlight: Sphenoclea Zeylanica prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sphenoclea Zeylanica is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Other common diseases include leaf spots and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If you notice signs of disease, treat the plant with a fungicide.

Habitat

Sphenoclea Zeylanica is found in wetlands and shallow water bodies, such as rice fields, ponds, and marshes. The plant is adapted to living in standing water and can survive in flooded conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Sphenoclea Zeylanica an invasive species?
A: No, Sphenoclea Zeylanica is not considered an invasive species.Q: Can Sphenoclea Zeylanica be grown indoors?
A: No, Sphenoclea Zeylanica requires a lot of water and is better suited for outdoor growing.Q: How fast does Sphenoclea Zeylanica grow?
A: Sphenoclea Zeylanica grows relatively quickly and can reach its full height in a few months.Q: Can Sphenoclea Zeylanica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Sphenoclea Zeylanica can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Sphenoclea genus:

• Sphenoclea Dalzielii
• Sphenoclea Zollingeri
• Sphenoclea Afzelii

References

• “Sphenoclea zeylanica – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286756&isprofile=0&basic=sphenoclea. Accessed 26 July 2021.
• “Sphenoclea zeylanica (Giant Sphenoclea).” World of Flowering Plants, 20 May 2019, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/sphenoclea-zeylanica-giant-sphenoclea/. Accessed 26 July 2021.
• “Sphenoclea Zeylanica.” Aquatic Plants of Florida, www.plantatlas.usf.edu/plant.aspx?id=1283. Accessed 26 July 2021.