Common Arrowhead
sagittaria sagittifolia
Also known as: ["Arrowhead","Sagittaria"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant with arrowhead-shaped leaves and white flowers, native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Genus: | Sagittaria |
| Botanical Name: | Sagittaria sagittifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: Pond margins, bog gardens, or containers with water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: Not required, as plant thrives in aquatic or semi-aquatic conditions
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; soil should retain moisture but not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content; can tolerate slightly heavier soils if well-drained.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season to avoid leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; for indoor plants, rotate regularly for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light in summer; rotate pot weekly for balanced growth.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, watering every 2–3 days during active growth
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; ensure soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
Rich, loamy soil with good moisture retention
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is consistently moist but not soggy; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F / 18–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost; thrives in stable, humid environments.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable temperatures; increase humidity in dry, hot conditions.
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 dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings; rhizome division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully with clean tools.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep in high humidity.
- Provide indirect light.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; ensure temperatures are stable and light levels are adequate.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and temperature for optimal rooting.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite) or water propagation for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 2–4 weeks, full establishment in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, small pots, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizome sections have buds; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; remove only dead/damaged foliage; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris to prevent pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts; allows the plant to recover quickly.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch feels dry; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply water slowly to allow absorption; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth (spring/summer); reduce watering slightly in winter but do not let soil dry out completely.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress; wilting or browning leaf edges in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged exposure to frost may kill the plant; cold stress weakens the plant, making it susceptible to pests and diseases.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors in cold climates; ensure soil does not freeze; maintain moderate humidity to buffer temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; high temperatures increase water demand, leading to dehydration if not met.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat buildup.
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 growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSagittaria sagittifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It is not typically associated with adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSagittaria sagittifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not typically associated with adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSagittaria sagittifolia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used in traditional cuisine and medicine without significant adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sagittaria sagittifolia edible?
A: Yes, the tubers are edible and can be cooked like potatoes.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, especially in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments.
Q: How does Sagittaria sagittifolia propagate?
A: It propagates via tubers and seeds, often spreading in water gardens.
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
