Floating arum (Orontium aquaticum)

Floating arum

Floating arum (*Orontium aquaticum*) is a plant species whose pointed, ovular leaves have a water-repellent surface. Floating arum is native to the eastern United States. It is found growing in shallow aquatic environments, like streams and ponds.

Scientific classification

Species

Floating arum (Orontium aquaticum)

Water plantains and allies

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Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

30 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

75 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Silver, Gray

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, White, Green

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, White, Yellow

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Floating arum

Distribution of Floating arum

Distribution Map

Floating arum is natively found in the temperate freshwater regions of the eastern part of North America. Its distribution has expanded through cultivation and subsequent naturalization to various parts of northern Europe. The plant is also widely cultivated beyond its native and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, shallow water pools and streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Floating arum

Elliptical to strap-like leaves, 5-18 inches (13-46 cm) long, with bluish-green color and water-repellent underside.

Distinctive club-like spadix flowers, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, white and golden yellow color combination.

Berry-like fruits with bumpy green exterior, multiple seeds, and unique appearance suitable for identification.

Seasonal appearance of prominent fruits in May, indicating ripening process with edible seeds post thorough cooking.

Suitable for wetland habitats, with foliage restng atop water surface in 1-12 inches (2.5-30.5 cm) depth.

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Care Guide for Floating arum

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Floating arum flourishes in wet environments like marshes and shallow waters, needing consistent moisture for growth. Weekly watering is ideal to replicate its natural habitat. As an aquatic plant, floating arum can be cultivated in water-filled containers, enhancing indoor water gardens.

Pruning: Floating arum thrives with pruning from early to late spring. Trim dead foliage to improve growth and water flow, while regularly removing decayed leaves to prevent fungi. Avoid excessive pruning to reduce stress, and aim to cut just above the water for better flowering and aesthetics.

Propagation: Floating arum is a perennial aquatic plant that prefers boggy environments. Propagate by sowing seeds in a suitable aquatic medium, keeping it moist to mimic natural conditions. Careful handling is crucial, enabling amateur gardeners to successfully cultivate floating arum by addressing its specific environmental needs.

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