Oxygen weed - Lagarosiphon major (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Oxygen weed

Also known as: South african oxygen weed, African elodea

Lagarosiphon major is a monocotic aquatic plant native to Southern Africa. Common names include African elodea, curly waterweed, oxygen weed and South African oxygen weed. It is used as freshwater aquarium plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Oxygen weed (Lagarosiphon major)

Water plantains and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Pink

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Oxygen weed

Distribution of Oxygen weed

Distribution Map

Oxygen weed is native to the freshwater systems of southern Africa. Its presence spans multiple continents where it is not indigenous, having been introduced primarily to regions in Europe and to some parts of Oceania. In these non-native areas, oxygen weed may have an impact on local ecosystems, often flourishing in bodies of water where it is sometimes thought to be a potential disruptor of natural balances.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Oxygen weed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Oxygen weed thrives in aquatic habitats, requiring consistent moisture. Water weekly to maintain hydration without waterlogging. It is often grown underwater in ponds or aquariums, benefiting from stable water temperatures for robust growth and lush appearance throughout the year.

Pruning: Oxygen weed features dense submerged foliage and requires regular pruning from early to late spring to manage its rapid growth. Using sharp shears, trim excess growth to enhance water flow and light penetration, preventing invasive spread and promoting ecological balance.

Propagation: Oxygen weed, an aquatic perennial from southern Africa, thrives through vegetative propagation by stem cuttings with multiple leaf nodes. Placing these in water encourages root growth. Monitoring water quality and nutrients is vital, and containment measures help manage its invasive nature.

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Images of Oxygen weed

Distribution of Oxygen weed

Care Guide for Oxygen weed

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