Alisma lanceolatum

Alisma lanceolatum, commonly known as lance-leaved water plantain, is a perennial aquatic plant belonging to the family Alismataceae. Native to Europe and Asia, it thrives in shallow water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant features long, lance-shaped leaves that can reach up to 30 cm in length. These leaves are arranged in a basal rosette and have prominent veins running parallel along their length. The plant's stem can grow up to 1 meter tall and is topped with clusters of small white flowers. Lance-leaved water plantain serves as an essential food source for aquatic animals such as ducks and fish. Additionally, its roots have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and kidney problems, among other ailments. Beyond its medicinal benefits, Alisma lanceolatum plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. It provides habitat for various aquatic organisms, including insects like dragonflies, which help control mosquito populations by preying on them. Overall, Alisma lanceolatum is a valuable addition to any freshwater ecosystem, offering both ecological benefits and medicinal uses. This significant species holds scientific and cultural interest alike.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Alisma

Family

Alismataceae

Hardiness Zone

5-8

Mature Height

61 cm

Mature Spread

25 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Blue

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

White

Flower Size

2.54 cm

Bloom Time

Summer

Planting Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Native Area

Libya, Turkey, Sweden, India, Austria, Slovakia, Pakistan, Slovenia, Morocco, Croatia, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Russia, Iraq, Germany, Estonia, Romania, Latvia, Belgium, Portugal, Netherlands, France, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Poland, Armenia, Greece, Ukraine, Serbia, Lebanon, Lithuania, China, Afghanistan, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Israel, Iran, Albania, Ireland, United Kingdom, Hungary, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan

Tags (4)

Common Names (9)