Reniform Water-leaf
heteranthera reniformis
Also known as: ["Water-leaf","Kidney-shaped Water-leaf"]
Overview
An aquatic plant with kidney-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers, typically found in shallow, still waters.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Pontederiaceae |
| Genus: | Heteranthera |
| Botanical Name: | Heteranthera reniformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: pond margins or shallow water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- 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:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, loamy soil with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers warm, stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Monitor room temperature, avoid drafts, adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in spring and fall
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant needs.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply hormone if using, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; trim back leggy growth to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead leaves, trim leggy stems, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, position plant, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage, flush periodically.
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
Non-toxicHeteranthera reniformis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHeteranthera reniformis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHeteranthera reniformis is not considered toxic to humans. The plant has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Heteranthera reniformis suitable for aquariums?
A: Yes, it can be used in aquariums or ponds, but it requires specific water conditions.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial to full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: As an aquatic plant, it should be submerged in water; no additional watering is needed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pontederiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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