Common mare's-tail (Hippuris vulgaris)

Common mare's-tail

Also known as: Mountain mare's-tail

Common mare's-tail (Hippuris vulgaris) is a creeping, perennial water plant that lives in Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in shallow water and mudflats, and typically reaches no more than 30 cm out of the water. It grows via underwater rhizomes. The plants have been shown to be significant emitters of methane.

Scientific classification

Species

Common mare's-tail (Hippuris vulgaris)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

10 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Green, Brown

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Common mare's-tail

Attributes of Common mare's-tail

Growth Rate

Common mare's-tail' showcases a rapid growth rate during Spring and Summer, undergoing an accelerated vertical growth supported by dense whorls of minutely toothed leaves. This swift development catapults leaf production, contributing substantially to the plant's 'pondweed-like' appearance. Intriguingly, this pace of growth makes 'common mare's-tail' particularly efficient at oxygenating and filtering water bodies.

Distribution of Common mare's-tail

Distribution Map

Common mare's-tail is native to temperate and boreal regions of Eurasia, encompassing significant areas across this vast territory. The species has also successfully extended to Northern Africa and North America, thriving in its adopted regions. Within Asia, its presence ranges from the Siberian taiga to the Himalayas. Common mare's-tail has been introduced to parts of East Asia and is cultivated, indicating an appreciation for its adaptive nature in various environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shallow streams, stream banks, bogs, seeps, upper montane and alpine zones

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Common mare's-tail

Rigid upright stems 6-12 inches tall

Whorls of slender, hair-like leaves creating a radial pattern

Inconspicuous small white flowers in summer

Thrives in full sun to part shade, cold resistant to USDA Zone 4

Easily propagates via divisions or stem cuttings, suited for aquatic environments

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Care Guide for Common mare's-tail

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common mare's-tail thrives in consistently moist, waterlogged soils, displaying strong resistance to overwatering. Watering should be done weekly to mimic its natural habitat. Seasonal water fluctuations greatly influence its growth, favoring vigorous development during wetter periods.

Fertilize: Fertilize common mare's-tail bi-monthly at half-strength with balanced nutrition during growth phases. Over-fertilization can harm water quality. Adjust feeding in dormant periods and consider slow-release fertilizers. Always adhere to package instructions for optimal development and environmental stability.

Pruning: Prune common mare's-tail in early to late spring to manage size and enhance growth. Remove dead stems and thin crowded areas for better sunlight and water circulation, preventing disease. Regular pruning promotes density and aesthetics; use clean, sharp tools to avoid infections.

Propagation: Common mare's-tail is an aquatic perennial that thrives in wet environments, perfect for ponds and water gardens. Propagation is best achieved through division in late spring or early summer, ensuring each section has adequate roots. Monitor water levels and substrates for successful establishment.

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