Six-stamened Waterwort
elatine hexandra
Also known as: ["Waterwort"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous aquatic plant with tiny, inconspicuous flowers, native to freshwater habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Elatinaceae |
| Genus: | Elatine |
| Botanical Name: | Elatine hexandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: Wetland garden, boggy area, or container with constant moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the plant's condition and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light if direct sun is too harsh. Indoors, position near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, watering every 2–3 days
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
Moist, loamy soil with high organic content
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant needs.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most effective method for Elatine hexandra.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
A mix of peat and perlite or a standard seed-starting mix works well.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, plastic bag, small pot, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle air circulation to prevent mold; transplant once roots are 1–2 inches long.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove leggy or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, or sharp knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove no more than 20% of foliage at once.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the best time to repot, coinciding with the start of the growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Elatine hexandra benefits from fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; water plant before repotting; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water deeply to encourage root growth, ensuring excess drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; use a space heater if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); insulate pots with bubble wrap.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with a mister or pebble tray; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElatine hexandra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicElatine hexandra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicElatine hexandra is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for incidental contact or consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Elatine hexandra suitable for aquariums?
A: Yes, it can be grown in aquariums or as a marginal plant in water gardens.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on water conditions.
Q: How does Elatine hexandra reproduce?
A: It reproduces via seeds and vegetative propagation in moist or submerged conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elatinaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | Keep soil consistently moist, |
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