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Lagenandra lancifolia (Schott) Thwaites

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Lagenandra lancifolia (Schott) Thwaites
  • Common Name: Lance-leaved Lagenandra

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia
  • Features: Admired for its striking lance-shaped, glossy leaves that can grow in clusters along water edges

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Lagenandra
  • Botanical Background: Described by botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott and was later revised by Thwaites. It is part of a genus that historically has had some taxonomic confusion, often being classified under other related genera.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in the tropical wetlands and freshwater habitats of Sri Lanka and India.
  • Environment: Thrives in humid, waterlogged environments, often found in swamps, slow-moving streams, or the edges of ponds. It prefers moderate sunlight and a consistently moist or submerged environment with nutrient-rich soils.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Long, narrow, and lance-shaped
  • Lengths of 30-50 cm
  • Glossy and dark green surface
  • Exhibit strong venation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Consists of a typical Aroid spadix and spathe
  • Inconspicuous compared to the foliage
  • Spathe is usually greenish or creamy, and the spadix is unremarkable in size and scent

Growth Habit

  • Plant is aquatic
  • Grows in submerged or partially submerged conditions
  • Not a climber and grows as a spreader in its natural habitat

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Can also adapt to low light conditions

Watering & Humidity

  • Consistently wet conditions
  • Should be grown in a waterlogged substrate or water garden
  • High humidity

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A soil mix that retains moisture, such as a rich, organic soil blend with added perlite or coarse sand
  • Containers that can hold water

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F)
  • A mild, balanced liquid fertilizer, applied monthly

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Dividing the rhizomes
  • Can also be grown from sections of the rhizome that contain at least one growing bud

Seeds

  • Rarely practiced due to the plant's preference for vegetative propagation methods
  • If seeds are used, they require warm, moist conditions to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Aphids, snails, and mealybugs
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap or neem oil
  • Ensure the substrate is well-draining and not kept stagnant for too long
  • Fungicides

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Aesthetic appeal and unique growth form
  • Used as an ornamental plant in tropical water feature
  • Elegant, lance-shaped foliage
  •  Ability to thrive in aquatic environments

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not listed as endangered
  • Natural habitats in wetland areas are under threat due to land development

Market Availability

  • Relatively rare in the general plant market
  • Can be found in specialized Aroid collections or water garden nurseries
  • Commonly grown for commercial sale

References & Resources

Further Reading

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