Pistia stratiotes aka Water Lettuce

Taxonomy

Genus Pistia Family Araceae Order Alismatales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Pistia stratiotes, also known as water cabbage, water lettuce, Nile cabbage, or shellflower, is the sole species in the genus Pistia and the tribe Pistieae in the arum family, Araceae. Its native distribution is uncertain but is believed to be pantropical, and it was first discovered in the Nile near Lake Victoria in Africa. It can now be found in almost all tropical and subtropical fresh waterways, either through natural means or human introduction, and is considered an invasive species and a mosquito breeding habitat. The genus name comes from the Greek word "pistos," meaning "water," referring to the aquatic nature of the plants, while the specific epithet is derived from the Greek word "stratiotes," meaning "soldier," in reference to the sword-shaped leaves of some plants in the Stratiotes genus. Pistia stratiotes has the potential to reduce the biodiversity of waterways and can be a weed due to its growth habit. The mats of water lettuce can block gas exchange at the air-water interface, reducing oxygen in the water and killing fish, as well as blocking light and killing native submerged plants. It is toxic if eaten in large quantities and can be invasive in locations with year-round warm temperatures and high humidity. However, the roots of Pistia stratiotes serve as a shelter for fish, and it grows in still waters of ponds, ditches, swamps, and slow-moving streams.

Common names

Water Lettuce, Water Cabbage, Shellflower

How to care for Water Lettuce

Difficulty

Water Lettuce requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

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

Soil

When growing Water Lettuce, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Water Lettuce with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Water Lettuce from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Water Lettuce regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Water Lettuce will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Water Lettuce prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Water Lettuce to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Water Lettuce is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

More info:
Wikipedia

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