Elodea crispa

lagarosiphon major

Also known as: ["Curly Waterweed","South African Elodea"]

Family: Hydrocharitaceae Genus: Lagarosiphon Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A submerged aquatic plant native to Southern Africa, known for its rapid growth and invasive tendencies in temperate regions.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Alismatales
Family: Hydrocharitaceae
Genus: Lagarosiphon
Botanical Name: Lagarosiphon major

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: Ponds, aquariums, or aquatic gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–11"}
  • Misting: N/A (fully submerged)
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

N/A (aquatic plant, submerged in water)

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

N/A (grows in water, may require substrate in ponds)

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid extreme fluctuations.

Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

N/A (absorbs nutrients from water)

Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of distress.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; division of mature clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems back to a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering or in early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) 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 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; use a soil aerator if compacted.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to disease in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heating mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and water demand increases in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use reflective mulch to reduce heat absorption.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor plant response.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be a response to environmental stressors like excessive sunlight or waterlogging in Lagarosiphon major.

Wilting in Lagarosiphon major is typically a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient water uptake or excessive water loss through transpiration, often exacerbated by high temperatures or salinity.

Leaf spots in Lagarosiphon major may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by warm, humid conditions, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf necrosis.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Lagarosiphon major due to prolonged submersion in stagnant water or infection by waterborne pathogens, leading to decay and loss of structural integrity.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lagarosiphon major is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic to cats

No special precautions needed for cats, but discourage chewing on any non-food plants.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lagarosiphon major is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines due to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic to dogs

No special precautions needed for dogs, but discourage chewing on any non-food plants.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lagarosiphon major is not known to produce toxic compounds that are harmful to humans. It is commonly used in aquatic gardens and does not pose a significant risk to human health.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic to humans

Handle with standard gardening precautions; avoid ingestion as with any non-food plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lagarosiphon major suitable for aquariums?

A: Yes, it is commonly used in aquariums for oxygenation and as a decorative plant.

Q: Is Lagarosiphon major invasive?

A: Yes, it is highly invasive in many regions and can outcompete native aquatic plants.

Q: How does Lagarosiphon major affect water quality?

A: It can improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients but may cause oxygen depletion if overgrown.

Quick Reference
Family: Hydrocharitaceae
Care: easy
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: N/A (aquatic plant, submerged
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Brazilian Waterweed
View
Nuttall's waterweed
View
Frogbit
View
Canadian waterweed
View