Callitriche marginata
Winged Water-Starwort
Description
Source: leafsnapCallitriche marginata, commonly known as the pond water-starwort, is a small aquatic plant belonging to the family Plantaginaceae. Native to North America, it thrives in shallow ponds, streams, and other freshwater habitats. This plant features a slender stem that can reach up to 30 cm in length, adorned with small leaves arranged opposite each other along the stem. The leaves of Callitriche marginata are narrow, elongated, and have pointed tips. They exhibit a distinctive dark green color with white margins along their edges. The plant also produces tiny, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from May to September. Callitriche marginata is an important food source for various aquatic animals such as waterfowl, fish, turtles, snails, and insects. It plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality by absorbing excess nutrients from its surrounding environment. This plant is easy to cultivate in aquariums or garden ponds, where it can provide oxygenation for fish while enhancing the aesthetic value with its delicate appearance. However, it is important to note that this species can become invasive if not properly managed or contained within its intended habitat. Overall, Callitriche marginata serves as a vital component of freshwater ecosystems and offers ornamental benefits for aquariums or garden ponds.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 3 days
☀️ Light Partial sun
🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C
Winged water-starwort can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, though its distribution may still be restricted by different combinations of moisture and heat. It does best in warm summer conditions with adequate rainfall or watering. Extended stretches of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can raise the likelihood of the plant dying. In winter, protecting it from cold can increase its chances of survival.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
Winged water-starwort thrives in aquatic environments and is recognized by its ribbon-like leaves. To keep the plant healthy and well-shaped, prune it in early spring with sterilized scissors. This helps remove any damaged leaves and encourages robust growth. Regular pruning not only enhances light penetration and air circulation but also boosts the plant's overall health. Additionally, keeping an eye out for pests and diseases is essential for maintaining optimal health.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Genus
- Callitriche
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 2 cm to 10 cm
- Mature Spread
- 5 cm to 15 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Pale Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 0.10 cm to 0.20 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late spring, Summer
- Native Area
- Mexico