Contents
Description
Stratiotes is a genus of aquatic plants commonly known as the water soldier. It belongs to the family Hydrocharitaceae, which includes other freshwater plants like waterweed and frogbit. The water soldier is a unique plant that grows entirely underwater, with the exception of the small rosette of leaves that floats on the water’s surface. It is a perennial plant that reproduces by producing daughter rosettes that detach from the parent plant and float away to establish new colonies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus | Stratiotes |
Appearance
The water soldier has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other aquatic plants. It has a small rosette of leaves that floats on the water’s surface, while the rest of the plant grows entirely underwater. The leaves are long, narrow, and sharply pointed, with a dark green color that blends in with the surrounding water. The plant also produces small, white flowers that rise above the water’s surface on long, thin stalks. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are pollinated by insects.
Care Guide
The water soldier is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your water soldier healthy:
- Water: The water soldier requires clean, fresh water to grow. Change the water regularly to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and algae.
- Fertilization: The water soldier does not require fertilizer, as it obtains its nutrients from the surrounding water.
- Soil: The water soldier does not require soil, as it grows entirely underwater.
- Sunlight: The water soldier prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near a window or under a grow light to ensure it receives enough light.
- Hardiness Zones: The water soldier can grow in hardiness zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The water soldier is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by certain issues. Here are some common problems to watch out for:
- Algae: Algae can grow on the leaves of the water soldier if the water is not changed regularly. Remove any algae growth by gently scrubbing the leaves with a soft brush.
- Snails: Snails can feed on the leaves of the water soldier, causing damage to the plant. Remove any snails that you see by hand or with a snail trap.
- Fungal diseases: The water soldier can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the water is not kept clean. Use a fungicide to treat any fungal infections.
Habitat
The water soldier is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, where it grows in slow-moving streams, ponds, and lakes. It prefers cool, clear water and can grow in both acidic and alkaline conditions. The plant is well adapted to living underwater and can survive in oxygen-depleted environments by using a specialized structure called a lacuna to store oxygen.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the water soldier an invasive species?
A: The water soldier is not considered an invasive species in most areas where it is found. However, it can spread rapidly under certain conditions and may outcompete native aquatic plants if not managed properly.
Q: Can the water soldier be grown in a fish tank?
A: Yes, the water soldier can be grown in a fish tank as long as the water is kept clean and the plant is not overcrowded.
Q: Does the water soldier produce seeds?
A: No, the water soldier reproduces by producing daughter rosettes that detach from the parent plant and float away to establish new colonies.
Q: Can the water soldier be grown in a pond with fish?
A: Yes, the water soldier can be grown in a pond with fish as long as the water is kept clean and the plant is not overcrowded. However, fish may eat the leaves of the plant, so it may be necessary to protect it with a net or other barrier.
Related Plants
- Hydrilla verticillata
- Elodea canadensis
- Ceratophyllum demersum
- Lemna minor
References
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee. (2000). Flora of North America North of Mexico, Vol. 22: Magnoliophyta: Alismatidae, Arecidae, Commelinidae (in part), and Zingiberidae. Oxford University Press.
- Pelser, P. B., et al. (2017). A new classification for the water soldier family, Hydrocharitaceae. Aquatic Botany, 136, 1-16.
- Steward, K. K. (2018). Hydrocharitaceae: A taxonomic monograph. CRC Press.
