Narrowleaf Water Plantain
alisma lanceolatum
Also known as: ["Water Plantain","Lance-leaved Water Plantain"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic or semi-aquatic herb with lance-shaped leaves and small white or pinkish flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Genus: | Alisma |
| Botanical Name: | Alisma lanceolatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: Wetland gardens, pond edges, or containers with water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: Not typically required
- Drainage: Moist but well-draining; can tolerate waterlogged conditions if roots are not submerged long-term.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; suitable for bog or aquatic conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently if the plant is overgrown or damaged.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight); adaptable to varying light conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; protect from intense midday sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation with appropriate light adjustments.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, watering every 2–3 days during active growth
Maintain high soil moisture; avoid letting soil dry out completely; water more frequently during hot, dry periods.
Soil
Rich, loamy soil that remains consistently moist
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Thrives in moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but may go dormant in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant and water thoroughly.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix or water for stem cuttings; coarse sand or perlite for rhizome division.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; rhizome division establishes quickly if conditions are favorable.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots or trays, moist medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back yellowing or dead leaves; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance; encourage new growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune in early morning or evening; remove only damaged or unwanted growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; focus on keeping the root zone moist; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce watering slightly in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance moisture retention; incorporate perlite for aeration; ensure good drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or induce dormancy; prolonged cold may damage roots or cause dieback.
Solution: Provide winter protection in colder climates; mulch around the base; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Alisma lanceolatum. The roots and leaves are the most toxic parts, capable of causing digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Alisma lanceolatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The roots and leaves contain compounds that may irritate the digestive tract, causing discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAlisma lanceolatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that may disrupt the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Alisma lanceolatum suitable for beginners?
A: It is moderately challenging to care for, so it is not ideal for beginners.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can Alisma lanceolatum grow in shade?
A: Yes, it can tolerate partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Keep soil consistently moist, |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
