Ludwigia decurrens aka Winged Water Primrose

Taxonomy

Ludwigia decurrens, also known as willow primrose or wingleaf primrose-willow, is a flowering plant in the evening primrose family. It is native to the central and eastern United States and can grow up to 6 feet tall, either as an annual herb or woody perennial. The plant has an erect form with a winged stem that is angled, and linear leaves that are arranged alternately. The flower has four to five yellow petals, and the seed capsules can contain up to 1000 seeds per capsule. This species grows in wet habitats, often alongside Polygonum and Cyperus species. While willow primrose is a rare houseplant, it requires regular watering to thrive and does best in long-lasting, direct light. The plant prefers soil that retains moisture well, and it should be less than a foot away from a window. Additionally, it has been shown to have allelopathic effects on other plants. Invasive in Africa and Southeast Asia, this species can colonize rice paddies and other wetlands due to its capacity to spread by seed or vegetative propagation from broken plant fragments. Its rhizomes can float in anaerobic habitats, aided by the aerenchyma. Exudates from willow primrose have been found to increase the mortality of Corchorus olitorius seedlings.

Common names

Winged Water Primrose, Wing Leaf Primrose Willow, Wingleaf Primrose Willow

How to care for Winged Water Primrose

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Winged Water Primrose, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Winged Water Primrose should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Winged Water Primrose, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Wingleaf Primrose Willow is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Winged Water Primrose will thrive!

Lighting

Winged Water Primrose requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Wing Leaf Primrose Willow is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

Once the Winged Water Primrose has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Winged Water Primrose as it grows vertically.


More info:
Wikipedia