Blunt-fruited Water Starwort
callitriche obtusangula
Also known as: ["Blunt-fruited Water Starwort"]
Overview
A small, aquatic or semi-aquatic plant with star-like leaves, typically found in still or slow-moving waters.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Callitrichales |
| Family: | Callitrichaceae |
| Genus: | Callitriche |
| Botanical Name: | Callitriche obtusangula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: pond margins, wetlands, or shallow water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to slow-draining, but not waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly waterlogged conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during spring or early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions, but prefers dappled sunlight for optimal growth.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from low light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; suitable for indoor or shaded outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; adjust light exposure gradually.
Watering
daily in extreme heat, every 3–5 days otherwise
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid waterlogging, and ensure consistent moisture during growth periods.
Soil
silty or sandy loam, moist to wet
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good organic content; ensure moderate drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid extreme heat.
Keep in cool to moderate conditions; protect from frost; avoid extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during growing season only; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant and maintain moisture.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix or water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), pots, moist soil or water.
Quick Tips
Use healthy cuttings; maintain high humidity; keep in warm, indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged leaves at the base; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; remove selectively.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose the right time; prepare new pot and soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost to improve structure and fertility; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging; move indoors during severe cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor; may enter dormancy in very hot conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth, reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCallitriche obtusangula is non-toxic to cats. Ingestion of this plant is not expected to result in any toxic effects or health complications for felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCallitriche obtusangula does not pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCallitriche obtusangula is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically used as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Callitriche obtusangula toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where is Callitriche obtusangula typically found?
A: It is commonly found in still or slow-moving waters, such as ponds, ditches, and marshes.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Callitriche obtusangula?
A: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Callitrichaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | daily in extreme heat, every 3 |
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