Dwarf Arrowhead

sagittaria subulata

Also known as: ["Dwarf Sagittaria","Subulata Arrowhead"]

Family: Alismataceae Genus: Sagittaria Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A small, aquatic plant with arrowhead-shaped leaves, commonly used in aquariums and water gardens.

Benefits & Perks

["low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Alismatales
Family: Alismataceae
Genus: Sagittaria
Botanical Name: Sagittaria subulata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor garden bed
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain 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 few months or when dead foliage accumulates.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only damaged or unwanted growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate lower light but may grow more slowly or lose color intensity.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to higher light levels to prevent leaf burn. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in hot climates. Indoors, place near an east or north-facing window.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth may indicate poor soil drainage or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; supplement with grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

Watering

daily in extreme heat, every 3–5 days otherwise

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Soil

loamy, organic-rich potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates slight fluctuations but thrives in stable, warm conditions.

Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor with a thermometer.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly otherwise

Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; choose a fertilizer with micronutrients.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting or divide the rhizome.
  2. Plant in moist propagation medium.
  3. Maintain humidity and warmth.
  4. Wait for roots to develop.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

A mix of peat and perlite or standard potting soil with good drainage.

Hormone

Not necessary but can speed up root development.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into healthy growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. Prune to control size and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (optional).

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged leaves; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.

Method

Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This encourages fresh soil and root growth.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During active growth (spring/summer), water more frequently; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing or browning leaves, stunted growth, or wilting can indicate temperature stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.

Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or humidifier; ensure adequate watering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Sagittaria subulata can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron or nitrogen, poor water quality, or inadequate lighting, which can affect photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Sagittaria subulata is often a sign of inadequate water uptake, possibly due to root issues, poor substrate, or environmental stress, which can lead to dehydration and plant decline.

Leaf spots on Sagittaria subulata may be caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens, leading to unsightly discoloration, reduced photosynthetic efficiency, and potential leaf drop if the condition is severe.

Rotting in Sagittaria subulata is typically caused by bacterial or fungal infections, often due to overwatering or poor water circulation, leading to decay of roots or stems and potentially plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Sagittaria subulata is not toxic to cats. No toxic effects or physiological impacts have been reported in felines after ingestion of this plant.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, it is advisable to prevent cats from ingesting large quantities of any plant material to avoid potential digestive discomfort.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Sagittaria subulata is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse physiological effects in canines after ingestion of this plant.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Although non-toxic, monitor pets to prevent overconsumption of any plant material, which may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Humans
Non-toxic

Sagittaria subulata is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this aquatic plant.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended. Always wash thoroughly before handling or consuming any plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Sagittaria subulata suitable for aquariums?

A: Yes, it is commonly used in aquariums due to its small size and attractive foliage.

Q: How much light does Sagittaria subulata require?

A: It thrives in moderate to high light conditions, though it can tolerate lower light.

Q: Does Sagittaria subulata need CO2 supplementation?

A: While it can grow without CO2, supplementation enhances growth and vibrancy.

Quick Reference
Family: Alismataceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: daily in extreme heat, every 3
Suitable For: ["beginners","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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