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Lagenandra toxicaria Dalzell

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Lagenandra toxicaria Dalzell
  • Common Name: Known as the "toxic arrowroot" or "toxic Lagenandra,"

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the wetlands of India
  • Features: Recognized for its distinctive, broad leaves and its ability to thrive in aquatic environments. It is often found in marshy areas and along riverbanks, where it contributes to local ecosystems

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Lagenandra
  • Botanical Background: Named after botanist William Dalzell, who was active in British India in the mid-19th century. The genus Lagenandra was first established in 1835 and is known for its aquatic habitat preferences.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to India, Lagenandra toxicaria primarily inhabits the marshes and riverbanks of tropical regions, particularly in the Western Ghats and the surrounding lowlands.
  • Environment: Thrives in humid, wet conditions, typically in waterlogged soil or shallow waters. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils and requires high humidity and consistent moisture to grow successfully.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, broad, and leathery with a glossy finish
  • Deep green color
  • Can grow up to 30 cm in length
  • May display a slight reddish tint on the undersides

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Inflorescence with a spadix surrounded by a greenish spathe

Growth Habit

  • Aquatic
  • Grows in clumps
  • Forms a low-growing mat along the water's edge

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Can tolerate moderate shade

Watering & Humidity

  • Consistently moist soil or shallow water
  • High humidity
  • Frequent misting and keep it in a humid environment

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral potting mix, such as a peat-based or loamy mix
  • If growing in water, it should be planted in a container with drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperature ranges from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
  • Light feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season, typically once a month

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Division of the rhizomes
  • New shoots will often emerge near the original plant

Seeds

  • Possible to propagate from seed
  • Not commonly used in cultivation due to their slower germination rate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Aphids, snails, and mealybugs
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Organic pesticides like neem oil
  • Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil
  • Reduce watering
  • Ensure the water is changed regularly

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Historically used in traditional medicine in parts of India
  • It leaves contain compounds that can cause mild poisoning if consumed
  • Striking and large leaves
  • Unique aquatic growth habit

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No significant conservation concerns
  • Natural wetland habitats are threatened by human activity

Market Availability

  • Not widely available in the market
  • Can occasionally be found in specialized aquatic plant nurseries

References & Resources

Further Reading

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