Species Watershield
silver-pink flower with red center, red filaments, white anthers and green-purple leaves

Watershield

Brasenia schreberi

Also Known As - Purple Wen Dock
Watershield (Brasenia schreberi) is a perennial aquatic plant known for its distinctive, lily pad-like leaves which are olive-green in color. The floating leaves are almost circular with a waxy coating, giving them the appearance of a water shield, thus the species name. Its deep-red, star-shaped flowers are the only above-water surface the species showcases. These flowers are dioecious, meaning they are either male or female flowers, and blooms from June to September. They are often found in ponds, drainages and lake edges. It is an excellent shelter for fish fry, amphibians and reptiles. Additionally, its wide distribution warrants protection of Waterhshield and its natural habitat.

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Slender False Brome should be watered approximately every 2 to 3 days. The amount of water will usually depend on the season and the internal temperature of the environment. In the spring and summer months, more frequent watering is needed and the plant should be watered deeply and thoroughly. During the fall and winter months, water less often, but still maintain a consistent watering schedule. Additionally, avoid over-watering the plant; if the soil feels overly wet or soggy, donā€™t add any additional water.

sunlight

Slender False Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) thrives in bright, direct sunlight and generally requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This species of plant can do well in partial shade, but it is not ideal as it will not receive optimal growth and flower production. Slender False Brome grows best in full sun during the morning and afternoon, with some shade in the middle of the day to prevent any stress or scorching from too much direct sunlight. The area should be consistently well-lit, or the plant will become leggy and weak.

pruning

Slender False Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) should be pruned in late spring or early summer just as the new growth appears. Pruning should be done at the ground level or at least 10cm above the base of the foliage. Removing older, more woody stems to emphasise the foliage and keep the plant tidy. Prune any dead or diseased stems and remove any that have outgrown the required shape and size.

āš ļø Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.