Potamogeton cristatus
Regel & Maack.
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iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) zxchang, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by zxchang
iNaturalist· cc-by
(c) zxchang, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by zxchang
Summary
Source: WikipediaPotamogeton cristatus, the little-leaf pondweed, is an aquatic plant species in the genus Potamogeton. It is found in slow moving fresh water.
Description
A pond-weed that grows under water. It can grow for one or several years. The stems are thin. The leaves are of 2 forms. The leaves under water do not have leaf stalks and are narrow and 3-7 cm long by 1 mm wide. The floating leaves are alternate and have a leaf stalk. They are oval and 2-3 cm long by 3-11 mm wide.
Edible Uses
Leaves and stems are edible when cooked.
Traditional Uses
The leaves and stems are cooked and eaten.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
None known.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant. It grows in ponds and paddy fields.
Where It Grows
Asia, China, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Russia, Taiwan,
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in this country, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. A submerged aquatic plant that can be used as an oxygenator of ponds. It is best given a loam based medium in full sun. A fast growing plant in need of constant checking to make sure it does not overrun the pond. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus, the resulting progeny is usually sterile.
Propagation
No specific information is available for this species, but the recommended approach is to sow seed in a pot standing in its own depth of water in a greenhouse as soon as ripe, since stored seed is likely to lose viability quickly. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle and gradually increase the water depth around the pot until plants are covered by a few centimetres. Grow on in a sunny greenhouse position through the first winter, continuing to increase water depth as plants develop. Plant out into permanent positions in early summer. Alternatively, divide plants in spring or take cuttings of erect shoots during the growing season.
Other Uses
None known.
Notes
There are about 100 Potamogeton species.
References (2)
- Romanowski, N., 2007, Edible Water Gardens. Hyland House. p 113
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
