Alisma lanceolatum
Alisma lanceolatum · Alismataceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alisma lanceolatum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Alismataceae
- Type
- Aquatic herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Natural habitat
- Wetlands, ditches, marshes
Care
Watering and submersion
The lanceleaf water plantain is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant that thrives with its feet submerged. Maintain a water depth of 5 to 15 cm above the soil or in marshy areas. In ponds, it also accepts constant moisture at the water's edge. Avoid complete drying of the substrate.
Light exposure
Prefer a sunny to partially shaded location for optimal flowering. The plant tolerates light partial shade however. In full sun, flowering will be more abundant. Light exposure also promotes foliage density.
Soil and substrate
Install it in soil rich in organic matter, slightly muddy or silty-clay, typical of wetlands. Pond soil or a peat-silt mixture works perfectly. The plant appreciates fertile substrate but is not bothered by slight pH variations.
Nutrition and fertilizer
In an established pond with fauna and flora, the plant generally finds all necessary nutrients. A balanced fertilizer application in spring can stimulate growth and flowering. Avoid excess which would promote pond eutrophication.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove faded leaves and flowers to encourage continuous flowering. In autumn, cut back the aerial parts which disappear naturally with frost. In spring, allow young shoots to emerge freely. Clean up debris fallen in the water.
Pests and diseases
The lanceleaf water plantain is generally very robust and rarely subject to diseases. Occasionally check for harmful aquatic insects. Good water circulation and pond balance prevent fungal problems.
Did you know?
The lanceleaf water plantain is a valuable indicator plant: its abundant presence in a body of water signals a balanced ecosystem and good water quality. Historically, its leaves were used in European traditional medicine for their soothing properties, hence its name 'plantain' which evokes the famous herbaceous plant of the meadows.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Water plantainAlisma plantago-aquatica
- Baldellia ranunculoidesBaldellia ranunculoides
- Duck potatoSagittaria latifolia
- Floating water-plantainLuronium natans
- Bulltongue arrowheadSagittaria lancifolia
- Alisma gramineumAlisma gramineum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.