Gonocarpus tetragynus
Gonocarpus tetragynus · Haloragaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant gonocarpus tetragynus: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Four-carpelled gonophyllum
- Family
- Haloragaceae
- Plant type
- Aquatic or semi-aquatic herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 10 to 30 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, finely divided
- Growth
- Moderate to rapid
- Origin
- Australia and Indo-Pacific regions
Care
Watering
Gonocarpus tetragynus is an aquatic or marsh plant that requires a constantly humid environment. Keep the substrate saturated with water or grow it partially submerged in a pond. In emergent cultivation, water abundantly without ever allowing the soil to dry out completely.
Light exposure
Prefer bright indirect light, or a location receiving 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily. Insufficient light slows growth and weakens the plant. In very hot climates, partial afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil and substrate
Use rich, light, well-draining substrate enriched with organic matter (quality potting soil, silt or sand). In a pond, clay or silty substrate works perfectly. The plant tolerates slight acidity to neutrality.
Fertilizer
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer or aquatic plant-specific fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growth period (spring-summer). In winter, reduce or stop fertilizing. Avoid overdosing, which promotes algae growth.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune stems regularly to encourage branching and maintain a compact shape. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves. Light pruning every month stimulates foliage density.
Diseases and pests
Watch for filamentous algae (reduce lighting duration and fertilizer applications). Root rot occurs in stagnant water; improve circulation. Few fungal diseases if humidity conditions are well managed.
Did you know?
Gonocarpus tetragynus has been a historically popular plant in freshwater aquariums since the 1960s, particularly in Southeast Asia. Its name literally means 'fruit with four carpels,' referring to the unique structure of its fruiting body. In traditional aquarium keeping, it is prized for its rapid growth and ability to absorb nitrates, thereby contributing to the natural balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
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
- Spiked water milfoilMyriophyllum spicatum
- Myriophyllum alterniflorumMyriophyllum alterniflorum
- Parrot featherMyriophyllum aquaticum
- Siberian water milfoilMyriophyllum sibiricum
- Gonocarpus teucrioidesGonocarpus teucrioides
- Gonocarpus micranthusGonocarpus micranthus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.