Pickerelweed
pontederia cordata
Also known as: ["Pickerel Weed","Pickerel Weed Plant"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant native to North America, known for its spikes of blue-purple flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Pontederiaceae |
| Genus: | Pontederia |
| Botanical Name: | Pontederia cordata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: boggy areas, pond edges, or containers with consistently moist soil
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to moist.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid deep shade for best flowering; protect from harsh afternoon sun; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil feels dry
Maintain consistently moist soil; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil with good organic content
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free conditions.
Protect from frost; water early in the day; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall)
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop fertilizing in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with sharp, clean tools.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep consistently moist until rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for stem cuttings; direct planting for rhizomes.
Medium
Moist, loamy soil or water for stem cuttings; well-draining soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, mature plant in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting medium, pots.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings humid.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead leaves at the base; thin overcrowded rhizomes.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health. Control spread by dividing rhizomes if needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom. Ensure even moisture distribution without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and temperature. Reduce frequency in winter but do not let soil dry out.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C). Prolonged cold can damage roots and cause dieback.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; move containers to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in extreme heat, especially with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season at half strength.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPontederia cordata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a risk of poisoning or irritation to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPontederia cordata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPontederia cordata, commonly known as pickerelweed, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a aquatic or semi-aquatic plant often used in water gardens and wetland restorations.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I plant Pickerelweed?
A: Plant in shallow water with at least 6 hours of sunlight, ensuring the crown is submerged 2-4 inches below the water surface.
Q: Does Pickerelweed attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and seeds.
Q: Is Pickerelweed invasive?
A: It can spread aggressively in favorable conditions but is generally manageable in controlled garden settings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pontederiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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