Pickeralweed Pontederia cordata 100 Seeds

Pontederia cordata, commonly known as pickerelweed, is a perennial aquatic plant native to North and South America. Here's a description of its key characteristics:

Appearance: Pickerelweed typically grows in dense clumps in shallow water or along the edges of ponds, lakes, streams, and marshes. It has erect, fleshy stems that can reach heights of about 60 to 120 centimeters (2 to 4 feet). The stems are usually green to reddish-brown in color and may have a slightly hairy texture.

Leaves: The leaves of Pontederia cordata are large, glossy, and heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped, giving rise to the species epithet "cordata," which means "heart-shaped" in Latin. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and may have prominent veins.

Flowers: The most striking feature of pickerelweed is its spike-like inflorescence, which bears numerous violet-blue to purple flowers. Each flower consists of three petals and a yellow or white throat, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The inflorescence emerges above the water surface and can be several inches long.

Blooming Period: Pickerelweed typically blooms from late spring to late summer, depending on the location and climate. The flowers are short-lived but are produced continuously throughout the blooming season.

Habitat: This plant is commonly found in shallow, still or slow-moving water bodies with muddy or sandy bottoms. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Pickerelweed plays an important role in wetland ecosystems by providing habitat and food for aquatic wildlife.

Ecological Importance: Pickerelweed provides cover and nesting sites for various aquatic animals, including fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. Its flowers attract pollinators, and its seeds are eaten by waterfowl and other birds. The dense growth of pickerelweed can also help stabilize shorelines and reduce erosion.

Cultural Uses: While not commonly cultivated, pickerelweed can be grown in garden ponds or aquatic gardens as an ornamental plant. It is best suited to naturalistic or wildlife-friendly landscapes where its ecological benefits can be fully appreciated.

Growing Instructions for the Pickeralweed

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Mix the seeds in wet sand. 2. Store the seed mixture in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks. 3. The seeds have the best rate of germination under water. Put the seeds on the surface of soil that is under water. The seeds can also be sown on soil that is not under water. Sow seeds on the surface of saturated soil, such as mud. The seeds need constantly moist soil. 4. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.