Orontium aquaticum L.

• Genus: Orontium
• Botanical Background: Described by Linnaeus (1753) in Species Plantarum

• Geographical Range: Endemic to eastern North America from Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Texas; naturalized in Sweden.
• Environment: Emergent perennial of acidic to neutral, tannin‑stained ponds, streams, swamps, and bog margins and prefers shallow water (5–30 cm depth), organic muddy substrates, high humidity

Leaves

• Basal rosette of long‑petiolate, oval leaves (10–30 cm), dark bluish‑green above, pale beneath

• Hydrophobic waxy surface

• Parallel venation

• Entire margins

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Golden‑yellow spadix (2–5 cm) on erect white scape
• Spathe extremely reduced, deciduous early
• Faint fungal‑like odor attracts flies/beetles

Growth Habit

• Emergent aquatic perennial with stout contractile rhizome
• No tubers
• Forms compact clumps

Light Requirements

• Full sun to bright, indirect light

Watering & Humidity

• Constant moisture
• Thrive submerged to emergent in shallow water
• High humidity

Soil & Potting Mix

• Fertile, loamy‑peaty substrate 
• Aquatic pots or bog garden recommended

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Hardy USDA zones 6–9
• Ideal 10–25 °C
• Monthly balanced fertilizer during active growth
  

Division

• Divide rhizomes in early spring; handle roots carefully

Seeds

• Sow fresh seed submerged in trays
• Germination within mature fruit common
• Viability declines if dried

Typical Issues

• Root rot in stagnant anaerobic water
• Occasional snails/slugs

Treatment Recommendations

• Improve water circulation
• Remove pests manually
• Organic copper fungicide for rot control

• Only Araceae lacking a persistent spathe
• Native Americans ground dried rhizomes/seeds into starch

• Prized for unique candle‑like inflorescences and glossy hydrophobic foliage in ornamental ponds

Wild Population Status

• Globally secure but locally rare in northern/western range
• No major threats identified

Market Availability

• Moderately available through specialty aquatic nurseries
• Uncommon in general trade