Water Hawthorn Aponogeton distachyos
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as waterblommetjie is notable for its distinctive features that thrive in aquatic environments. This plant typically has a strong rhizome that anchors it within the soft substrate of freshwater bodies. Its leaves are both floating and submersed, with the floating ones displaying a glossy green surface, broad and oval-shaped, emerging on long slender stalks that rise above the waterline. During its blooming season, waterblommetjie presents an attractive display of flowers. These blooms consist of two differing types of flowers; the smaller ones are nondescript and primarily serve reproductive purposes, while the larger, more conspicuous ones attract pollinators and admirers alike. These prominent flowers are creamy white and have a unique arrangement of petals, with a spike or inflorescence protruding from the water, bearing a resemblance to water lilies in their elegance. Notably, waterblommetjies do not produce a classic scent that appeals to human senses, but instead have a subtle fragrance tuned to its natural pollinators. The aesthetic appeal of this plant is largely attributed to its delicate blossoms floating on the water's surface, presenting a serene addition to any pond or still water garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aponogetonaceae
Synonyms
Water Hawthorn, Cape Pondweed, Vleikos, Waterblommetjie
Common names
Aponogeton distachyon, Aponogeton natans, Aponogeton virens.
ToxicityTo humans
The waterblommetjie, Aponogeton distachyos, is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, it is edible and a traditional ingredient in South African cuisine, particularly in a dish known as waterblommetjiebredie. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it should be consumed with caution if you are trying it for the first time.
To pets
The waterblommetjie, Aponogeton distachyos, does not have a reputation for being toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe, but as with any non-traditional food, it is possible for pets to have an individual intolerance or allergic reaction. Care should be taken to introduce any new plant material into a pet's diet slowly to monitor for potential adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: Aponogeton distachyos, commonly known as "water hawthorn," produces attractive white flowers that enhance the visual appeal of ponds and water gardens.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers and foliage of water hawthorn provide habitat and food for aquatic insects and other wildlife.
- Oxygenation: Like many aquatic plants, water hawthorn helps oxygenate the water, benefiting fish and other aquatic creatures.
- Algae Reduction: By shading the water and competing for nutrients, water hawthorn can help reduce the growth of algae in ponds and water gardens.
- Seasonal Interest: Water hawthorn is known for its long blooming season, which can extend from early spring into late fall, providing interest during times when other aquatic plants are dormant.
- Easy to Grow: Aponogeton distachyos is considered an easy plant to cultivate in ponds, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
- Erosion Control: The root system of water hawthorn can help stabilize pond banks and prevent soil erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aquarium Decor: Cape Pondweed's robust growth and lush foliage can provide natural shelter and a pleasing aesthetic in home aquariums.
- Wildlife Habitat: In ponds, Cape Pondweed offers a habitat for aquatic insects, amphibians, and provides spawning ground for fish.
- Water Quality Indicator: The presence of Cape Pondweed in water bodies can indicate a certain level of water quality as it requires relatively clean, nutrient-rich environments.
- Education: Cape Pondweed can be a subject for botanical studies and to educate on aquatic plant species and pond ecosystem dynamics.
- Garden Ponds: Cape Pondweed is used to add beauty to garden ponds and is favored for its white, vanilla-scented flowers which bloom above the water surface.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers of the Cape Pondweed can be cut and used in floral arrangements where they add a unique, freshwater element.
- Culinary Indicator: The plant’s seasonal blooming period in the spring can be used by gardeners and chefs alike as an indicator that certain other culinary herbs are ready to be harvested.
- Sound Barrier: Dense growth of Cape Pondweed in water bodies can act as a sound barrier, muffling noise pollution from surrounding areas.
- Photography: Its attractive flowers and unique foliage make Cape Pondweed a popular subject for nature photography.
- Erosion Control: The root system of Cape Pondweed helps in stabilizing pond banks and preventing soil erosion.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Water Hawthorn is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Water Hawthorn is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resurgence: Aponogeton distachyos, commonly known as water hawthorn, often dies back to its tuber in summer only to re-emerge with vigor in the cooler months, symbolizing renewal and the ability to rebound from adversity.
- Purity: Its elegant white flowers that float on the water's surface are frequently associated with purity and innocence, akin to other white blooms.
- Adaptability: As an aquatic plant that thrives in varying water conditions, the water hawthorn can represent flexibility and the ability to thrive in various environments.
- Tranquility: Often found in calm waters, the presence of water hawthorn is symbolic of peace and serenity, reflecting the quiet habitats it often inhabits.
- Hidden Depth: Since the roots of the water hawthorn are submerged and hidden from view, they signify unseen depths, hidden knowledge, or the subconscious.
WaterWater lily, or Aponogeton distachyos, should be planted in a pond or container with at least 6 inches of water covering its tubers, ensuring a continuously wet or submerged condition. Since it's an aquatic plant, instead of traditional watering, maintaining the water level is crucial. Top up the pond or container regularly to maintain the water depth, especially during the warmer months when evaporation can lower water levels more quickly. Aim to add fresh water every week or two, using about 1-2 gallons depending on the size of your pond or container and the rate of evaporation.
LightWater lily thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. For the lushest growth and best flowering, place it in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially in the afternoon or in regions with extremely hot summers.
TemperatureWater lilies are comfortable in a range of temperatures but grow best when the water temperature is between 65°F and 75°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 90°F. Avoid freezing conditions and scorching temperatures to keep the plant healthy.
PruningPrune water lily plants to remove yellow or brown leaves and spent flowers, which encourages new growth and blooming. The best time to prune is during the active growing season. Snip off the undesired parts at the base, every few weeks or as needed, to keep the plant looking tidy and to prevent decay in the water.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWater Hawthorn thrives in loamy, fertile substrates with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. A mixture of garden soil and pond plant soil in a 40-60 ratio creates an ideal environment for root growth and nutrient uptake. Ensure the soil mix is well-aerated and can hold moisture without becoming waterlogged.
RepottingWater Hawthorn should be repotted once every 2 to 3 years to prevent crowding and refresh nutrient levels. It's generally best to repot in the spring before the growing season starts for minimal stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingWater Hawthorn requires high humidity levels as it is an aquatic plant. It thrives best in environments where it can be submerged in water, ideally with a constant water level, making humidity concerns irrelevant since it is designed to grow in ponds and water gardens.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Water Hawthorn in a shallow indoor pond with ample light.
Outdoor
Plant Water Hawthorn in a pond or container water garden.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleAponogeton distachyos, commonly known as Water Hawthorn, begins its life cycle as a dormant tuber which sprouts in cool water conditions. The plant sends up elongated, floating leaves and establishes a root system in the pond bed or container. Once mature, it produces fragrant white flowers with a black center on spikes that rise above the water surface, typically in the spring and fall. After pollination, often aided by insects, the plant sets seeds that fall into the water and can develop into new tubers, propagating the species. During the summer, when the water temperature rises, Water Hawthorn may enter a period of dormancy until cooler temperatures return. Throughout its life, the plant requires a stable aquatic environment with sufficient nutrients to support both vegetative growth and flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Water Hawthorn, or Aponogeton distachyos, is commonly propagated through division, which is typically done in late winter to early spring when the plant is not in active growth. The process involves carefully taking the plant out of the water or the pot, and gently separating the tubers, ensuring that each piece has at least one growing point or shoot. These divisions can then be replanted in pots submerged in water, with about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) of water above the top of the pot, and should be placed in a sunny to a partly shaded position in the pond. Given the right conditions, these divisions will soon establish themselves and begin to grow, producing the characteristic floating leaves and fragrant flowers unique to the Water Hawthorn.