Canadian waterweed
elodea canadensis
Also known as: ["Canadian elodea","common waterweed"]
Overview
A submerged aquatic plant native to North America, widely used in aquariums and educational settings for its rapid growth and oxygen production.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","pet-friendly","cold hardy","air purifying","low maintenance","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus: | Elodea |
| Botanical Name: | Elodea canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: aquarium, pond, or still water garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–10"}
- Misting: not applicable
- Drainage: Not applicable if submerged; if potted, ensure heavy, water-retentive soil with good drainage.
- Soil Type: Not required if growing submerged; if potted, use aquatic plant substrate or heavy garden soil topped with gravel.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; monthly during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or excessive growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; can tolerate full sun but may require shading in intense heat to prevent overheating.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; avoid direct midday sun in summer; adjust placement based on water temperature.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate container for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for signs of sunburn or bleaching.
Watering
daily in water
Ensure constant submersion; use dechlorinated water if in tap water; avoid stagnant or overly warm water.
Soil
not applicable, submerged in fresh water
pH: Adaptable; prefers slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5).
Use heavy soil for potted plants; avoid lightweight mixes that float; top with gravel to prevent cloudiness.
Temperature
Grows in 10–25°C (50–77°F); tolerates cooler water but thrives in moderate temperatures; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Monitor water temperature regularly; avoid placing in drafty areas; use a thermometer to track changes.
Fertilizing
rarely required
Dilute fertilizer to avoid algae blooms; fertilize only if signs of deficiency appear; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy stems.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or substrate.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright, humid environment with clean, oxygenated water.
Medium
Fresh water with optional rooting hormone; can be planted directly in substrate or left floating.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop within 1–2 weeks; new growth appears in 3–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, clean container, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water weekly; provide bright light for faster growth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a node; remove yellowing or decaying leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain water quality; trim overgrown stems to control spread.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; trim overgrown stems; remove any decaying matter from water.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up if repotting; ensure pot is wide enough for spreading roots.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in fresh substrate with good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required if growing submerged; if potted, repot every 1–2 years to refresh substrate.
Checklist
Prepare new substrate; trim roots if crowded; ensure good drainage; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check water level daily; ensure water is clear; monitor for algae growth; replace water if it becomes murky.
How to Apply Water Properly
Maintain water level to cover roots and lower stems; ensure water is clean and oxygenated; avoid direct water flow that could dislodge plants.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep submerged in fresh, still water; top up as needed to maintain water level above roots; no routine watering schedule as it grows in water.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter if potted; ensure substrate is heavy enough to anchor roots.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves in cold water; wilting or browning in excessively warm water; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaves to yellow or drop; can enter dormancy in very cold water.
Solution: Move to a warmer location if possible; ensure water does not freeze; add a heater if necessary to maintain minimum 10°C.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, brown, or develop algae; growth may slow; water may become oxygen-depleted.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase aeration with a bubbler; change water more frequently to keep it cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check for nutrient deficiency; use liquid fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Not typically required in nutrient-rich water; if needed, use liquid aquarium fertilizer at half strength monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElodea canadensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicElodea canadensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicElodea canadensis is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is commonly used in aquariums and water gardens without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elodea canadensis safe for fish tanks?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic and provides oxygen, making it ideal for aquariums.
Q: How does Elodea canadensis reproduce?
A: It reproduces vegetatively through fragmentation and also by seeds in some conditions.
Q: Can Elodea canadensis grow in cold water?
A: Yes, it is cold-hardy and can thrive in cooler aquatic environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | daily in water |
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