Hydastylus borealis Bickn.
Hydastylus borealis Bickn., also known as Northern Water-starwort, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the family Callitrichaceae. It can be found in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies such as marshes, ponds, and lakes in North America, including Alaska and Canada.
Common Names
Hydastylus borealis is commonly referred to as Northern Water-starwort due to its star-shaped leaves under water. Other common names include Water Starwort and Water Thread.
Uses
While it is not used for medicinal purposes, Hydastylus borealis is often used in aquariums and water gardens. It helps to oxygenate and clarify the water, while also providing shelter for small aquatic creatures. Additionally, it is used in ecological restoration projects to help control erosion and improve overall water quality.
General Appearance
Hydastylus borealis has narrow, thread-like stems that are up to 6 inches long. The leaves of the plant are arranged in a star-shaped pattern and are extremely small, measuring only around 1-2mm in size. They are green in color and have a smooth texture. The flowers of the plant are very small and white, and bloom from June to September. The plant grows densely and can form large mats on the surface of the water.
Growth Conditions for Hydastylus borealis Bickn.
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. is a perennial plant species commonly found growing in wetlands and damp habitats throughout northern North America such as in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It can grow up to 50 cm tall and has narrow, grass-like leaves.
Light Requirements
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. prefers partial to full shade. It cannot tolerate full sun exposure for extended periods, which can cause dehydration and wilting. However, it can also grow in areas of dappled sunlight or filtered light that penetrate through the canopy.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species has a moderate temperature range, and it can tolerate cold temperatures better than heat. It is hardy to USDA zones 1 to 6, and it grows best in cooler areas with an average temperature range of 45 to 70°F (7 to 21°C). During the winter, it can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
Soil Requirements
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. thrives in moist, well-drained, and acidic soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It also prefers soils with high organic matter content. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as the soil is not waterlogged for too long.
Overall, Hydastylus borealis Bickn. requires specific growth conditions, including partial to full shade, moderate temperature, and moist, acidic soils with high organic matter content. In the right conditions, it can thrive and produce attractive foliage year-round.
Cultivation Methods
Hydastylus borealis Bickn., commonly known as the northern water-starwort, is an aquatic plant species that can be grown in containers or ponds. The plant prefers shallow water with a depth of around two feet. It can be propagated through seeding or division of the parent plant.
Watering Needs
Hydastylus borealis requires adequate water to thrive. The water level should be maintained at about two feet, and the plant should be provided with enough water to ensure proper development. Water changes are necessary, depending on the level of contaminants and the growth rate of the plant.
Fertilization
The use of fertilizer is not mandatory for Hydastylus borealis since it is an aquatic plant and obtains nutrients from aquatic ecosystems. However, the addition of fertilizer can enhance the growth rate of the plant and ensure it reaches its full potential. Fertilizers high in nitrogen content are best for use; a quarter of the recommended dose should be added to the water. Fertilization should be done once a month.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for maintaining the plant's health and controlling its spread. Dead or decaying leaves should be removed immediately to prevent their decay from affecting the rest of the plant. The plant can be pruned to control its growth rate or to achieve the desired shape.
It is recommended to trim the plant's stems to around two inches above the water surface to promote bushiness while preventing the plant from becoming too dense. The best time to prune the plant is in late summer or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Propagation Methods of Hydastylus borealis Bickn.
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. can be propagated by two methods:
1. Propagation by seeds:
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagation for Hydastylus borealis Bickn. Seeds should be collected after the fruit has turned brown but before it has split open. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be sown. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat.
The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring after the last frost. The soil should be well-drained, loose, and have a slightly acidic pH. The seeds should be sown about 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart. Hydastylus borealis Bickn. seeds usually germinate in about 2-4 weeks after sowing.
2. Propagation by division:
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the root clump into smaller sections, each with a few shoots and roots attached. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring before new shoots emerge.
To divide the plant, carefully remove it from the soil. Gently separate the root clump into several smaller sections using a sharp, clean knife. Each section should have at least one shoot and some roots attached. The divided sections can then be planted in well-drained, loose soil that has a slightly acidic pH.
Disease Management
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it may be susceptible to a few fungal diseases. One common fungal disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide. Another fungal disease that can affect Hydastylus borealis Bickn. is leaf spot. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and spray the plant with a copper fungicide.
Pest Management
Hydastylus borealis Bickn. is also relatively pest-resistant, but it is still susceptible to a few common pests. One common pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. Spider mites can cause leaf discoloration and damage. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and spray it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Another common pest that can affect Hydastylus borealis Bickn. is aphids. Aphids can cause plant damage and transmit viruses. To manage aphids, regularly inspect the plant and spray it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
