Common Water-starwort Callitriche stagnalis
ABOUT
Commonly known as common water-starwort, this plant is a fresh aquatic species that boasts a versatile appearance adapting to its environmental conditions. It has slender, flexible stems that creep along the surface of the water or sprawl across moist substrates. The leaves of common water-starwort are arranged in opposite pairs, and they can be varied in shape, being either oblong or oval, and sometimes even appear to be almost round. The leaf arrangement gives the impression of a star pattern, which is a charming characteristic that adds to the visual appeal of the plant. The coloring of common water-starwort can range from a vibrant green to a slightly yellowish-green, depending on factors such as light exposure and water quality. When flowering, this plant exhibits very small and inconspicuous flowers, with the male and female flowers usually found on separate plants. The flowers generally have a pale green or white hue. The blend of the delicate leaves and flowers creates a soft, feathery texture, making it a preferred choice for adding a touch of tranquility to water gardens and ponds. Common water-starwort is also known for forming dense mats of foliage on the water's surface under the right growing conditions. This coverage can provide a natural habitat for small aquatic organisms and can be a source of shelter and food for a variety of wildlife. However, in some cases, it may need to be managed to prevent excessive growth that could impede water flow or affect other aquatic species.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae.
Synonyms
Common Water-starwort, Pond Water-starwort, Starwort, Vernal Water-starwort.
Common names
Callitriche aquatica, Callitriche autumnalis, Callitriche elongata, Callitriche hamulata, Callitriche intermedia, Callitriche longipedunculata, Callitriche palustris, Callitriche pedunculata, Callitriche verna, Callitriche vulgaris, Elatine alsinastrum.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Callitriche stagnalis is common water-starwort. As of my last update, common water-starwort is not known to be toxic to humans. There is no well-documented evidence of toxicity or poisonous effects resulting from the ingestion or contact with this aquatic plant. Consequently, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with it. However, with any plant, individual allergic reactions are always a possibility, so it is advisable to practice caution if one is not familiar with the plant.
To pets
The common name for Callitriche stagnalis is common water-starwort. This plant is generally considered non-toxic to pets, and there are no recorded cases of poisoning from ingestion of this aquatic plant. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of common water-starwort poisoning documented for pets. Keep in mind that individual animals may have specific sensitivities or allergic reactions to any plant, so monitoring your pets and seeking veterinary advice if you notice any unusual signs after ingestion is always a prudent course of action.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
2 inches (5 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Water Quality Improvement: Callitriche stagnalis, commonly known as Common Water-starwort, can absorb nutrients and pollutants from water, contributing to better water quality in ponds and slow-moving streams.
- Erosion Control: The roots of Common Water-starwort help stabilize soil and reduce erosion along water bodies' margins.
- Habitat for Aquatic Life: It provides a habitat for a variety of aquatic organisms, including microinvertebrates and fish, which can hide and feed among the foliage.
- Oxygenation: Common Water-starwort plays a role in oxygenating the water, which is beneficial for other aquatic plants and animals.
- Biodiversity Support: By serving as a food source for certain waterfowl and other animals, it supports local biodiversity.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Common Water-starwort has attractive foliage that can float on the water surface, enhancing the natural beauty of ponds and water gardens.
- Surface Cover: It can form mats on the water surface which help regulate the temperature and light levels in the water body, potentially reducing the growth of algae.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Waterfowl Habitat: European water starwort provides cover for waterfowl while they forage or nest, creating a natural habitat within water bodies.
- Fish Shelter: The dense growth of this plant under water offers a safe haven for fish and other aquatic creatures to hide from predators or spawn.
- Aquarium Decoration: Aquarists sometimes use European water starwort for its feathery foliage and ease of growth, adding natural beauty to home aquariums.
- Erosion Control: By establishing itself on the banks of waterways, this plant helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Oxygenating Water: Though not directly related to air purification, European water starwort contributes to maintaining the oxygen balance in the water which is crucial for aquatic life.
- Photography Subject: Due to its delicate structure and association with serene water bodies, it is sometimes used as a subject for nature photography.
- Educational Resource: Schools and colleges may use it to study aquatic plant life cycles and understand how they contribute to their ecosystems.
- Water Quality Indicator: Like many aquatic plants, European water starwort can serve as an indicator of water quality, with its presence and health suggesting certain water conditions.
- Compost Material: When harvested, it can be added to compost heaps where it decomposes, adding nutrients back into the soil.
- Artistic Inspiration: The intricate patterns of this aquatic plant can provide inspiration for artists, especially those who specialize in botanical illustration.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiWater Starwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityWater Starwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Starwort thrives in both standing and slow-flowing water, which symbolizes its ability to adapt and persist despite changing environments.
- Flexibility: Reflecting its capacity to grow in varying conditions, starwort represents the ability to be flexible and versatile in life.
- Purity: Often found in bodies of fresh water, starwort suggests purity and the cleansing of the spirit, akin to the clear waters it inhabits.
- Resilience: Starwort's ability to survive in different aquatic habitats signifies resilience and the strength to overcome challenges.
WaterCommonly known as starwort, Callitriche stagnalis thrives best in aquatic environments where water is abundant, making it essential to maintain constant submersion or a water-soaked medium for ideal growth. Submerging the plant or keeping the surrounding water fresh is equivalent to "watering" and should be done as needed to preserve water quality, which may involve changes of several gallons weekly, depending on the size of the water body it resides in. Ensure the habitat is consistently filled, but be cautious of waterlogged conditions for potted specimens.
LightStarwort prefers bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight, which mimics its natural riparian or pond habitat. A spot that receives filtered light through a canopy or a location that provides protection from the intense midday sun is ideal for starwort. Avoid deep shade as it may inhibit growth and reduce the plant's vitality.
TemperatureStarwort fares well in temperatures ranging from 50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit, thriving optimally in the cooler end of this spectrum. It can survive slight variations above and below this range, but prolonged exposure to temperatures outside of 50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental.
PruningPruning starwort is primarily done to control its growth and prevent it from overtaking a water body or aquarium setup. Simply trim excess growth using clean, sharp scissors, ideally during the growing season when the plant recovers more readily. Pruning can be performed as required to maintain the desired shape and size or to encourage bushier growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCommon Starwort prefers a soil pH of 6.5-7.5. The best soil mix for this aquatic plant is a loamy substrate rich in organic matter, mimicking a natural pond bottom.
RepottingCommon Starwort is an aquatic plant and does not require repotting in the traditional sense but may need refreshing of its growing medium or dividing every few years to manage growth.
Humidity & MistingCommon Starwort thrives in high humidity conditions as it is an aquatic plant, usually growing submersed or floating on water surfaces.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Submerge in a water container, ensure full or partial light.
Outdoor
Plant in a pond or marshy area, allowing roots to submerge.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as common water-starwort, Callitriche stagnalis begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring in aquatic environments. The seedling quickly develops into a small rosette of leaves that float on the surface or emerge above the waterline. As it matures, it produces both submerged and floating leaves, adapting to its watery habitat. Through the summer, the plant undergoes vegetative growth and also produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are pollinated underwater or by the water's surface, leading to fertilization. The development of fruits follows, containing seeds that are eventually released into the water, allowing for dispersal. In the winter or during adverse conditions, the plant may die back, but the seeds remain viable, enabling the cycle to begin anew the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Callitriche stagnalis, commonly known as common water-starwort, can be propagated through various methods, but the most popular one is through division. This process is typically executed in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, gardeners carefully remove the plant from water and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a portion of roots. These sections are then promptly replanted in wet soil or into the shallow parts of ponds or aquatic gardens. It is important to maintain high moisture levels for the new plants until they establish themselves. This method of propagation allows for a quick increase of stock and helps maintain the genetic consistency of the plant's desirable traits.
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