Origin
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. is a plant species from the family Alismataceae. It is commonly found in North and South America, especially in the United States and Mexico.
Common Names
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. is commonly known as narrow-leaved arrowhead, slender arrowhead, or duck potato.
Uses
The narrow-leaved arrowhead is a popular aquarium plant due to its aesthetic appeal. Its long, slender leaves provide a lovely contrast to other aquatic plants in the aquarium. The plant also helps to oxygenate the water and provides hiding places for fish, making it a great addition to any aquarium setup. In the wild, the duck potato is an important food source for ducks and other waterfowl.
General Appearance
The narrow-leaved arrowhead is a semi-aquatic plant with long, blade-like leaves that can grow up to 18 inches tall. The leaves are dark green with a glossy appearance and have a slight curl to them. The plant produces delicate white flowers on long stalks in the summer. The duck potato also produces small tubers, much like its close relative, the potato.
Lighting Requirements
The Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima plant requires a medium to high light intensity for optimal growth. It is recommended to place it in an aquarium or an area with aquatic conditions whereby it can receive at least eight hours of light exposure in a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima plant is between 18°C and 28°C. It can tolerate small fluctuations in temperature, but sudden and extreme changes can negatively affect its growth. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent water temperature for the plant to thrive.
Soil Requirements
Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima plant requires rich nutrient substrate to support its growth. A mixture of clay, sand, and aquatic plant fertilizer can be used as a substrate. The soil should be free of any debris, and plant waste should be removed promptly to prevent rotting. The plant should be anchored securely in the substrate to prevent it from floating away.
Water Requirements
The Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima plant is an aquatic plant that requires fresh and clean water. Frequent water changes are necessary to prevent the buildup of toxins that may negatively impact growth. The water pH level should be between 6.5 and 7.5, and the hardness level should be between 2 and 10 dKH.
Fertilization Requirements
The Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima plant requires regular fertilization to support its growth. An aquatic plant fertilizer with a balanced nutrient mix can be used. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every two weeks or as directed on the product label. Over-fertilization may cause algae growth and negatively impact the plant's overall health.
Cultivation methods:
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. is an aquatic plant that can grow in both freshwater and brackish water. It prefers moderate to high lighting conditions and temperatures ranging from 68 to 82°F. It can be grown in aquariums, ponds, or even in bog gardens. The substrate should be a mix of sand and clay to provide enough nutrients and a stable base for the roots.
Watering needs:
As an aquatic plant, Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. requires consistent moisture levels to thrive. It is best to keep the water level at least a few inches above the substrate to ensure the roots are completely submerged. Regular water changes are essential to keep the water clean, clear, and free from excess nutrients that can cause algae growth and other issues.
Fertilization:
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. benefits from regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and vibrant colors. Liquid or substrate fertilizers can be used, but it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize once or twice a week, depending on the plant's growth rate and the aquarium's nutrient levels.
Pruning:
Regular pruning is required to maintain the plant's shape and prevent excessive growth that can block light to other plants in the aquarium. It is best to trim the plant regularly, removing any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers. Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. can be trimmed to any height and is highly adaptable to different pruning styles, making it an excellent choice for aquascaping.
Propagation of Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm.
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm., also known as Narrow-leaved Sagittaria or Dwarf Sagittaria, is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium hobby. It is a versatile plant and can be propagated through various methods.
Propagation via Rhizome Division
Rhizome division is the most common method of propagating Sagittaria subulata. The plant produces runners, and new plants sprout from these runners, connected to the parent plant by a rhizome. To propagate via rhizome division, carefully remove the parent plant from the substrate, then locate and separate the runner that has new plants at its nodes. Cut the runner with a sharp, sterile instrument and plant the new plants in their desired location.
Propagation via Adventitious Plantlets
Sagittaria subulata can also produce adventitious plantlets, which are miniature versions of the parent plant that develop on the leaves. These plantlets will grow roots when they come in contact with substrate, and they can be separated from the parent plant and planted elsewhere. To propagate via adventitious plantlets, carefully remove the leaf with the plantlet, plant the leaf in a separate container with substrate, and wait for the plantlet to grow roots. Once the roots have developed, the new plant can be planted in its desired location.
Propagation via Seeds
Although Sagittaria subulata can be propagated via seeds, it is not the preferred method. Seeds can be difficult to find and germinate, and the plants that develop from them may not be true to the parent plant. To propagate via seeds, collect mature seeds from a healthy plant, dry them, and store them in a cool, dry location until ready to plant. Sow the seeds in a container filled with moist substrate, and provide consistent moisture and light until the seeds germinate. Once the new plants have developed several leaves, they can be transplanted to their desired location in the aquarium.
Disease Management
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. is generally not known to be susceptible to many diseases. However, the plant can still fall victim to some fungal and bacterial infections. The most common diseases that might affect the plant include:
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial Leaf Spot is caused by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris. The disease is characterized by the appearance of small, brown-black spots on the leaves. These spots can enlarge and coalesce, causing the leaves to wither and fall off. The best way to manage Bacterial Leaf Spot is by ensuring proper sanitation practices and providing adequate air circulation. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent the disease from spreading. Fungicides might be used as a preventive measure, but they are not effective once the disease is established.
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium Wilt is a fungal disease that is caused by the Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. sagittariae fungus. The disease is characterized by the yellowing of the leaves and a rapid wilting of the plant. The roots and stem often have brown discoloration. Management practices for Fusarium Wilt are mostly preventive. These include planting disease-free seeds, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and ensuring proper irrigation and drainage. There is no known cure for the disease.
Pest Management
Sagittaria subulata (L.) Buch. var. gracillima (S. Wats.) J.G. Sm. is generally not vulnerable to many pests. However, some predators might attack the plant, causing damage to the leaves and stems. The most common pests that might affect Sagittaria subulata include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. The presence of aphids can cause curling, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. Aphids tend to congregate on the undersides of the leaves and can reproduce rapidly. The best way to manage the pest is by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are safe options that do not harm other beneficial insects like ladybugs and praying mantis.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs are mollusks that feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving large holes and ragged edges. These pests often thrive in damp environments and are most active at night. The best way to manage snails and slugs is by handpicking them at night or installing copper barriers around the plant. Copper barriers create an unpleasant sensation for snails and slugs, deterring them from approaching the plant.
