Ducksalad facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ducksalad |
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| Heteranthera limosa | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Heteranthera
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| Species: |
limosa
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| Synonyms | |
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Heteranthera limosa is a pretty flowering plant. It is also known as ducksalad or blue mudplantain. This plant belongs to the water hyacinth family. You can find it growing in shallow water or on muddy ground. In some parts of the central United States, it is a threatened species. This means it is rare and needs protection. But in California, it can be a problem weed in rice paddies. It also grows sometimes in Florida waterways.
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
Heteranthera limosa is an annual plant. This means it lives for only one growing season. It usually grows about 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 cm) tall. The plant can look different depending on where it grows. Plants in water look different from those on mud. It has thick, green leaves shaped like a spade. These leaves have veins that run side by side.
When the plant grows in water, some leaves might be underwater. These submerged leaves are long and thin. Its stems spread out and can be up to 15 inches (38 cm) long. They can also grow roots at their joints.
Its Flowers
The flowers of Heteranthera limosa are very pretty. They can be blue, purple, or white. Each flower has six narrow petals. They also have three stamens, which are the parts that make pollen. The flowers are almost 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. A special leaf-like part called a spathe sits below each flower.
The flowers only bloom for a short time. They usually open early in the morning and close by noon. This can happen from May to November, if the weather is right.
Where Does It Grow?
Heteranthera limosa likes shallow water. It grows best in water less than 2 inches (5 cm) deep. You can also find it at the edges of ponds or in ditches by the road.
This plant grows in many places. It is found in states like Arizona, Arkansas, California, and Florida. It also grows in Mexico, the West Indies, Central America, and parts of South America.
Special Places in Minnesota
In Minnesota, Heteranthera limosa is at the northern edge of its natural home. It grows in the southwestern part of the state. Here, it lives in shallow pools that form when water seeps through rock layers. These pools are often found near Sioux quartzite rock. In Minnesota, it is a threatened species. This means it is rare and only found in very specific, unusual places. It grows there with other rare plants like Isoetes melanopoda.
See also
In Spanish: Lila de agua para niños
