Swamp Star
heteranthera limosa
Also known as: ["Swamp Starflower","Mud Plantain"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant with star-shaped flowers, native to North America, typically found in shallow water or wet soil.
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 limosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: bog garden, shallow water garden, or container with water feature
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
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:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent leaf burn; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust light exposure based on seasonal changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile loam with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil and compost; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to prevent nutrient burn; apply after watering to avoid root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, moist soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or overgrown stems at the base; trim back leggy growth to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape the plant to maintain form.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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 away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with loose soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; plant may become dormant or die in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeteranthera limosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHeteranthera limosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHeteranthera limosa is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How deep should the water be for Heteranthera limosa?
A: It thrives in shallow water, typically 2-6 inches deep, or in consistently moist soil.
Q: Does Swamp Star attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Heteranthera limosa invasive?
A: It is not considered invasive but can spread moderately in favorable conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pontederiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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