Siberian water milfoil
Myriophyllum sibiricum · Haloragaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant siberian water milfoil: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Whitening Water Milfoil
- Family
- Haloragaceae
- Type
- Submerged aquatic plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous (disappears in winter)
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Siberian and temperate Asia
- Water depth
- 30 to 100 cm
Care
Light exposure
Whitening Water Milfoil thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of direct light daily to develop dense, colorful foliage. In an aquarium, position it near a powerful light source to optimize growth.
Substrate and aquatic environment
This plant adapts to most aquatic substrates (gravel, sand, specialized aquarium soil). It prefers a pH between 6.5 and 8, and soft to moderately hard water. Plant it firmly in the substrate to prevent floating, pushing the stems well into the bottom.
Water circulation and quality
Maintain well-oxygenated water with gentle circulation. Perform a 20 to 30% water change each week to prevent nutrient buildup. The ideal temperature ranges from 15 to 25°C, depending on climate conditions and season.
Pruning and maintenance
Trim stems regularly to encourage branching and promote bushier growth. Remove dead or yellowing parts to maintain vigor. Weekly pruning in aquariums is beneficial for controlling rapid growth and preventing the plant from overtaking the tank.
Fertilization
Apply a complete aquatic fertilizer (macro and micronutrients) once or twice a month, depending on planting density. Good lighting and regular water circulation are often sufficient, as this plant absorbs nutrients from the natural nitrogen cycle and food residues.
Disease prevention and troubleshooting
Whitening Water Milfoil resists disease well if the water remains clean. Watch for filamentous algae if there is excessive light or nutrient overload. Regular filter cleaning and balanced tank management prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Whitening Water Milfoil is an excellent aquascaping plant due to its finely serrated foliage that creates a natural, highly appreciated effect for aquarists. Its name 'whitening' refers to the whitish reflections on its new shoots under strong lighting. In its natural Asian habitat, it plays an important ecological role by oxygenating the water and providing shelter for aquatic insect larvae and fish fry.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Spiked water milfoilMyriophyllum spicatum
- Myriophyllum alterniflorumMyriophyllum alterniflorum
- Gonocarpus tetragynusGonocarpus tetragynus
- Parrot featherMyriophyllum aquaticum
- Gonocarpus teucrioidesGonocarpus teucrioides
- Gonocarpus micranthusGonocarpus micranthus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.