Origin
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a species of aquatic plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to southern Africa, where it is commonly found in seasonal pans and swamps.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Floating Marshflower or the Floating Daisy.
Uses
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is not used for any commercial or medicinal purposes. However, it is an attractive ornamental plant due to its delicate flowers and floating habit, and thus can be used in aquatic gardens, water features or aquariums. The plant provides an excellent habitat for aquatic life, as it acts as a shelter and breeding ground for fish and invertebrates.
General Appearance
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a floating plant with thin, elongated stems that can grow up to 40 cm in length. The leaves are small, obovate, and rounded at the tips. The plant typically blooms in the summer season, producing small, white or yellowish flowers that measure up to 1.3 cm in diameter. The flowers have both male and female reproductive organs and are pollinated by insects and birds. The plant's roots are modified into thread-like structures which help keep the plant afloat in water.
Light conditions
For optimal growth of Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh., it requires moderate to bright light. In their natural habitat, these plants grow near the water's surface where they receive direct sunlight. In indoor settings, they can be placed near a south-facing window, where they can get enough sunlight.
Temperature conditions
This plant can grow well in a temperature range of 18°C to 28°C. It cannot withstand cold temperatures below 12°C. Therefore, during the winter, it should be kept indoors or in greenhouses to avoid freezing.
Soil requirements
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. It can thrive in heavy clay or sandy soils as long as they are not waterlogged. It requires a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. It is best to avoid soils that have high salt content as these can be harmful to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It can be grown in both indoor and outdoor water gardens. It prefers to be planted in full sun to partial shade with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant requires a lot of space and should be planted at least 8 inches apart.Watering Needs
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. requires consistent moist soil and lots of water. The plant should be placed in shallow water, ideally 6 to 12 inches deep. The water should be changed frequently, ideally once every two weeks, to prevent stagnation and the growth of algae. If grown indoors, changing water weekly is necessary.Fertilization
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. does not require fertilization, as it can obtain nutrients from the water and soil. However, adding a small amount of aquatic fertilizer every two weeks can encourage growth.Pruning
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. does not require pruning as it has a trailing growth habit. However, if you wish to keep it contained, pruning the tips of the plant can be done. Removing dead or dying branches or leaves is best done while the plant is still in the water.Propagation of Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh.
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. can be sown directly in the soil during spring or summer. The soil should be well-draining and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and should be watered regularly. The germination period is usually between 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a faster method of propagation compared to propagation by seeds. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, which is usually in summer. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of healthy stems and should be around 10-15 cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The cutting should be planted in well-draining soil and should be kept moist until roots develop. This usually takes around 4-6 weeks.
Disease Management
Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is a hardy plant species with relatively fewer disease problems. However, some of the common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot diseases
- Bacterial wilt
- Rust
Leaf spot diseases are characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. These spots may appear circular or irregular in shape. In severe cases, the leaves may turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, it's essential to remove the affected leaves and destroy them. You can also use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial wilt, on the other hand, mostly affects the stems and causes them to wilt and die. If you notice wilting, remove the affected parts and destroy them immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tools after each cut to avoid spreading the bacteria. The use of resistant cultivars is also recommended.
Rust is another common disease that affects Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. The disease is characterized by orange or brownish pustules on the leaves and stems. Remove the affected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Like diseases, Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. is also relatively pest-free. However, the following pests may occasionally attack the plant:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Caterpillars
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage an aphid infestation, you can use a hose to wash off the insects from the plant or use an insecticide. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using chemical insecticides.
Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to become speckled or discolored. To manage spider mites, you can use a miticide or insecticide. It's also essential to maintain high humidity levels around the plant to discourage spider mites.
Caterpillars can also feed on the leaves of Helophytum fluitans Eckl. & Zeyh. var. obovatum Eckl. & Zeyh. and cause significant damage to the plant. The use of Bacillus thuringiensis or an insecticide can effectively control caterpillar infestations.
