Subularia aquatica
Subularia aquatica · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant subularia aquatica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Subularia aquatica
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Submerged aquatic plant
- Adult size
- 5 to 15 cm in height
- Foliage
- Evergreen, in basal rosette
- Flowering
- June to August, tiny white flowers
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 9)
- Origin
- Temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America
Care
Submersion and water level
Subularia is entirely submerged or floating in shallow freshwater. Maintain a water depth of 10 to 30 cm depending on the variety. This plant tolerates seasonal fluctuations well and can survive on moist substrate during winter periods. It grows easily in aquariums or shallow basins.
Light and environment
Prefer moderate to bright light exposure, with at least 6 hours of natural light per day. In aquariums, standard horticultural or LED lighting works perfectly. Avoid dense shade, which slows growth and weakens the plant.
Substrate and base
Plant subularia in fertile, nutrient-rich substrate (silt, aquatic soil, or enriched fine sand). It roots quickly and can also grow floating without anchoring. Regular liquid nutrient supplements promote a beautiful rosette.
Nutrition and micronutrients
Apply a complete liquid fertilizer (macro and micronutrients) once or twice weekly in aquariums. This compensates for the poverty of aquatic substrate and stimulates vigorous growth. Follow recommended dosages to prevent toxic accumulation.
Maintenance and pruning
Pruning is rarely necessary; simply remove dead or damaged leaves. If the rosette becomes too dense, thin it slightly to promote water circulation. Subularia self-regulates naturally through its moderate growth.
Health and prevention
This plant is robust and rarely affected by disease in a well-balanced aquarium. Excess organic matter or prolonged stagnation can favor algae. Maintain good water circulation and avoid excessive nitrates.
Did you know?
Subularia is a botanical curiosity: it's one of the rare Brassicaceae (the cabbage and mustard family) that is entirely aquatic. It rarely flowers in captivity, preferring asexual reproduction through natural seeding in the wild. This small, discreet plant colonizes lake shores and oligotrophic wetlands, where it plays an important ecological role in temperate aquatic ecosystems.
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.