Eurasian watermilfoil
myriophyllum spicatum
Also known as: ["spiked watermilfoil","common watermilfoil"]
Overview
A submerged aquatic plant with feathery, whorled leaves and spikes of small flowers emerging above the water surface.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Haloragaceae |
| Genus: | Myriophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Myriophyllum spicatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: aquarium, pond, or water garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required if submerged in water
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 5–7 days, ensuring soil remains consistently moist
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overhead watering.
Soil
submerged in water, no soil required
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Use a thermometer to monitor conditions; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with liquid aquatic plant fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid overfertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C).
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim leggy stems, remove damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant to maintain form.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week, adjusting for rainfall; reduce frequency in winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicMyriophyllum spicatum is slightly toxic to cats. Ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation, causing discomfort and potential digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicMyriophyllum spicatum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive system of canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMyriophyllum spicatum, commonly known as Eurasian watermilfoil, is considered slightly toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain compounds that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Myriophyllum spicatum invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered an invasive species in many regions due to its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native aquatic plants.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, though flowering is more prolific in full sun.
Q: Can it be grown in aquariums?
A: While it can be grown in aquariums, it is more commonly found in natural or artificial ponds and water gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Haloragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, ensuring soi |
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