Species Autumnal Water Starwort

Autumnal Water Starwort

Callitriche hermaphroditica

Also Known As - Northern Water Starwort

The Autumnal Water Starwort (Callitriche hermaphroditica) is an emergent perennial aquatic plant, growing in still and slow-moving water. With bright green leaves, it produces yellow or white blooms from July to October. In the winter, the foliage dies back and re-emerges in the following year. A hardy species, it adapts to a variety of aquatic habitats, making it desirable of aquaculture systems. It is widely distributed throughout Europe, but can be found in North America as well. Not only a beautiful addition to a water garden, the Autumnal Water Starwort provides shoreline protection, and an excellent food source for fish and waterfowl.

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Pedunculate Water-Starwort is a moderately drought tolerant plant species and should be watered when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. It is best to check the moisture levels of the soil weekly to ensure the optimal growing conditions. Water the plant deeply, allowing the excess water to drain out. Avoid overwatering, as too much moisture can cause leaf yellowing and root rot. During hot and dry spells, water the Pedunculate Water-Starwort once per day or every 2 days. The amount of water to use depends on the soil's drainage rate and size, but a general guideline would be to use about 1-2 inches of water each time.

sunlight

The Pedunculate Water-Starwort is a species of aquatic plant which flourishes in full sunlight. This species preferably demands 8-10 hours of uninterrupted direct sunlight. The best time to provide sunlight for this species of plant is from midday to mid-afternoon as that is when the heat is high and sun rays are the strongest.

pruning

The pruning for Pedunculate Water-Starwort should be kept to a minimum; only prune when necessary. It is recommended to prune in late spring around the end of April or the beginning of May once the new growth has started to appear. The best way to prune is to cut back any dead or dying stems as close to the base as possible. Pruning when the plant is actively growing will encourage new growth and increase flowering. It is also recommended to lightly trim away any damaged, diseased or old stems as needed.

Propagation