Water Frogbit
baldellia ranunculoides
Also known as: ["Marsh Water-plantain","Water Buttercup"]
Overview
A small, aquatic herbaceous plant with floating leaves and small, white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Genus: | Baldellia |
| Botanical Name: | Baldellia ranunculoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: bog garden, shallow water garden, or container with water feature
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; soil should remain moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Moist, rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from intense afternoon sun; suitable for shaded garden beds or indoor low-light areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; prefers dappled light; can thrive in deep shade.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain high soil moisture; avoid waterlogging; water more frequently in warm months.
Soil
peaty, loamy, water-retentive soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to avoid root shock.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Water thoroughly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; after flowering is also acceptable.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Moist, loamy soil with added perlite for drainage; can also be propagated in water.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division can be done immediately; stem cuttings may take 3–4 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes in early spring; keep cuttings moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves at the base; trim back overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; trim selectively; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, moist soil with good drainage; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose 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 when top inch feels dry; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent root rot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 improve moisture retention; incorporate perlite for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate cold but prolonged freezing temperatures may damage foliage; prefers cool conditions over winter.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid frost exposure.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may go dormant if too hot.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure consistent moisture; avoid placing in hot, dry areas.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBaldellia ranunculoides is not considered toxic to cats. It lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBaldellia ranunculoides is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBaldellia ranunculoides is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Baldellia ranunculoides suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and specific aquatic conditions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can Baldellia ranunculoides be grown indoors?
A: No, it is an aquatic plant best suited for outdoor water gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
