Callitriche platycarpa
Callitriche platycarpa · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant callitriche platycarpa: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Type
- Submerged aquatic plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (tiny flowers)
- Mature size
- 5 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (temperate to mild zones)
- Origin
- Temperate and subtropical regions worldwide
Care
Aquatic immersion
This aquatic plant must remain completely submerged or in a very humid environment. Grow it in an aquarium, shallow pond, or constantly wet soil. Maintain a water depth of 5 to 15 cm above its stems for optimal growth.
Light
Callitriche appreciates bright exposure, ideally 6 to 8 hours of daily light. In an aquarium, use suitable lighting. It tolerates partial shade but growth slows and foliage becomes less dense.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch stem tips regularly to encourage branching and a bushy shape. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves to prevent rot. Light weekly pruning maintains a compact and attractive silhouette.
Nutritional supplementation
In an aquarium, a complete liquid fertilizer (macronutrients and trace elements) once a week is usually sufficient. In an outdoor pond, the natural environment often provides necessary nutrients, unless the plant shows signs of deficiency (pale coloring).
Substrate and environment
Use fine substrate (sand or aquatic soil) to anchor the stems. Callitriche also develops freely in suspension. Ensure the water remains clear and well-oxygenated to prevent silt buildup.
Health and prevention
This aquatic plant is generally hardy. Watch out for filamentous algae that can smother it: limit excess nutrients and maintain good biological balance. If rapid rot occurs, check water quality and remove affected parts.
Did you know?
The flat-fruited water starwort gets its scientific name from its characteristic disk-shaped fruits (platycarpa). Historically, certain callitriche species were used in natural habitats for water purification and biological treatment, before aquarium hobbyists discovered their full ornamental potential.
Where to buy it
Best planted in spring or autumn, away from frost and heatwaves. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September, October.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.